Raymond P. "Sam" Bass

Raymond P. Bass, "Sam" Born in Hermon, Maine, May 11, 1921. Died in Tucson, Arizona, January 9, 2006 at the age of 84. Inspirational and loving father, dependable and loyal brother, generous and enthusiastic grandfather, dedicated and committed community member. Raymond was an Amateur Radio operator for over 70 years. His first call sign was WILNY. In August of 1960 he moved to Tucson and changed his call sign to K70MR. He was active for many years in Tucson RACES, Old Pueblo Radio Club , and the Tucson Repeater Association. Sam, as Raymond was affectionately called, served over 34 years in the military and worked for Pima County in the communications Department, where he retired after 10 years. Sam was a member of A.P.C.O. (Association of Public Safety Communications Officers), and was the Frequency Advisor for the State of Arizona for many years. Sam joined the B.P.O.E (Elks) lodge #385 in December 1983, where he was chairman of the Search and Rescue Awards Committee. He was a familiar face there Tuesday and Friday nights for many years. He is predeceased by Margaret, his wife of 47 years. Survived by sisters, Pauline and Geraldine; daughters, Margaret and Mary; grandchildren, Matthew, Pamela, and Cheri. Visitation at SWAN FUNERAL HOME, 1335 S. Swan Road, Thursday, January 12, 2006 from 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. with a Vigil Service at 5:00 p.m. Funeral Mass at St. Joseph Church, 215 S. Craycroft Road, Friday, January 13, 2006 at 10:00 a.m. Military burial at Ft. Huachuca, Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Sierra Vista, Friday, January 13, 2006 at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, you may make a donation in memory of Raymond Bass to HOSPICE FAMILY CARE, 6300 E. El Dorado Plaza, Suite A-100, Tucson, AZ. 85715.