Serving in the military during World War II taught Basile the importance of compassion and enjoying every day, according to Katy.
Basile attended Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., and St. John's University in New York, where he majored in philosophy and received a juris doctorate.
The combination of disciplines reflected his ability to appreciate everything from history to science, Katy wrote.
"As the adventurer in the family, he moved from New York to California in the early '50s, there meeting his wife, Phillis, a future OCC professor, union leader and vice chancellor for the Coast Community College District — a 'true genius,' as he always said of her," according to Katy's description.
Phillis and Rudolph, or R. John, as he was known, were married for 55 years.
As an attorney, Basile participated in one of the first poverty law programs, in Indio, and for many years maintained a law practice in Orange and Modoc counties, making sure that his clients were given an fair opportunity to be heard in court.
Later, from the late 1970s to late '80s, he owned and ran, along with Robert Domengine, the Clamdigger Restaurant in Birch Bay, Wash., Katy said.
Katy described her father as an independent thinker who helped others enjoy life and as a nurturing, supportive and loving father, husband and grandfather.
In addition to his wife, Phillis, and two children, he is survived by his older brother, Matthew; son-in-law, Michael Fero; daughter-in-law, Christina (Faris); and six grandchildren: Kelly, Allie, Shelby, Mostyn, Connor and Delaney.
A public remembrance will be held at noon Saturday at 276 Fairview St. in Laguna Beach, Katy said.
