ABE BASS

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ABE BASS October 25, 1908 - July 14, 2005 After a life well-lived, Abe Bass passed away peacefully on July 14, 2005 at the age of 96. He will be lovingly remembered and missed by his wife and soul mate of 70 years, Gloria (nee Orloff); son Don; daughter Lynda; grandchildren, Eileen Fortin (Tim) and Hartley; great-grandsons, Kelsey and Taylor Fortin; sister-in-law Laura Orloff, as well as numerous family and friends. Abe was predeceased by his grandson Jonathan; brothers, Alec, Sam and Harry; mother Sarah and father Jacob, who died enroute to Canada. Abe was also predeceased by his brother-in-law, Arnold Orloff and sister-in-law Jean. Abe arrived in Canada from Pavolich, Ukraine as a young boy with his mother and brothers, settling in Fort William, now Thunder Bay, ON. He began a lifelong career as a cattle buyer and owner of a meat and grocery store at the tender age of 18. Abe and Gloria moved to Winnipeg in the early 1990's. In retirement, they travelled extensively, including wintering in the Miami, Florida area for a number of years. Abe helped many people during his lifetime, as a friend, a mentor and a source of support. Besides his love for all people, he loved most his family. On June 14, 2005, Abe and Gloria celebrated their 70th Wedding Anniversary with more than 100 family and friends in attendance. A graveside service was held for Abe on Sunday, July 17 at Shaarey Zedek Cemetery. Pallbearers were Hartley Bass, Sid and Larry Liber, Ken Katz, Coley Kaufman and Palmer Rouse, along with special nephews, Jake and Joe Bass, who served as honorary pallbearers. Gloria, Don and Lynda extend special thanks to the caring, compassionate and hardworking staff in Emergency at the Health Sciences Centre for taking such excellent care of Abe; to Winnipeg's Fire Paramedic Service for their quick and compassionate response; and to all those who have offered their support and condolences. Also a special thank you to Dr. Jack Rusen and Dr. Rubin Kaufman. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Abe and Gloria Bass Fund through the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba. Rest in peace sweet prince.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 20, 2005