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John Bass Obituary
JOHN H. BASS
AGE: 58 NEPTUNE CITY
John H. Bass, 58, of Neptune City died Monday, May 25, 2009 at MediCenter at Neptune City. He was born In Neptune Township and had resided in Wall Township before moving to Neptune City.
He was a well known artist in the Asbury Park boardwalk area where he was known as a speed painter.
He was a graduate of Howell High School, Howell Township.
Surviving are five brothers, Donald Bass and his wife Shirley, Lakewood, David Bass and his wife Martha, Long Branch, Danny Bass and his wife Kim, Myerstown, Pennsylvania, James Sharpe, Long Branch, and Michael Sharpe and his wife, Alicia. Asbury Park; four sisters, Joanne Conaway and her husband Robert, Manchester Township, Belinda Spradley and her husband Raymond, and Sharon Bass, all of Manalapan Township; and Darlene Postell and her husband Donald, Freehold; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Visiting will be held at the Higgins Memorial Home, 20 Center Street, Freehold on Saturday from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. A memorial service will be held at the funeral home at 2:00 p.m.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Bass
Sponsored by anonymous.
Sean McGilvery
May 23, 2025
"Hey out there! Can you see me out there!" What an amazing person and inspiration. "Not a whole lot of much... Just a touch." - John Bass
Mitch Llewellyn
January 19, 2025
John was a great artist, I bought one of his Regulator clock painting on glass. He was a wonderful Guy.
Mary Hille
June 29, 2024
John dated my sister, I remember him when I was a young child! Bless you
Sean McGilvery
September 16, 2023
I first saw John Bass when he did a painting demo at the Aldrich Elementary School in Howell, N.J. I was amazed then by his character and the speed at which he painted. It left a huge impression on me. He just enjoyed it so much you could feel it. I also went on to pursue a career in art and, upon returning from art school, was delighted to discover his TV show on the public access channel. I watched it many times and he will always be "The King of Instant Art" to me. I only just now have learned of his passing, and though I was not a personal friend of his, I feel the loss. If anyone has any copies of his TV program, I would love to post them on YouTube, so the world could continue to enjoy his unique character and passion for art the way I did. If anyone reads this and has any of those episodes, or if the family would like to contact me, please do. [email protected]
May the King of Instant Art shine on forever in our hearts.
Kelly rooney
June 17, 2023
I have a light house mirror n denim coat painted by John I knew him from Asbury n hung out at Collingwood with him he was so sweet n cool I've been thinking about him alot lately it's so sad he's gone
Nancy McGillis
May 21, 2023
I think of John and I remember his sweet smile, soft voice, and gentle ways. Memories of him always make me smile. I see you now, in Heaven, painting landscapes.
Dae
October 14, 2020
HAPPY BIRTHDAY BIG JOHN!!!! Another year celebrated in heaven!!!
Dae
October 14, 2020
HAPPY BIRTHDAY BIG JOHN!!!! Another year celebrated in heaven!!!
Robin
September 4, 2020
I have a lion painting John painted for me in 1977.... it’s still in great shape. Makes me smile when I remember way back when.
Dad's Favorite
Dan Stridacchio
November 24, 2019
Dae B.
October 14, 2019
HAPPY BIRTHDAY BIG JOHN!!! Still missing you.
Vena Searcy
June 2, 2019
A special soul. He showed his art in my Belmar Emporium.. shop.. So gifted.. Also an accomplished musician . A good friend. R.I.P. John
Guido Morvillo
May 27, 2019
I have 3 of Mr. Bass's paintings I bought from him in 1981, that now hang in my home study in Arizona. They remind me of the the great times I had on the Jersey shore. Just today I thought I would do a google search. I was very sad to hear of his passing. I remember him as a very talented artist and very nice person.
Toni Glenn
May 21, 2019
10 years, seems like a lifetime ago. Truly Loved and Missed by many...
December 10, 2018
RIP.. I remember John on my many trips to the Asburk Pk boardwalk... What a great guy... Wish I knew where to find a piece of his amazing artwork
Dae Evans-Baldwin
October 14, 2018
HAPPY BIRTHDAY BIG JOHN!!! I miss you SO much cuz!!!
Medard Kopczynski
March 15, 2017
Strange, felt a need to see if I could find anything out about John and very sad to see that he has passed. I do like the remembrances. Went to school with John at Howell. John introduced me to who would become my wife. John, dawn and I are still together, kids, grandkids and all.
Thank You John, we will see you again.
Med and Dawn
Albert Superczynski
December 6, 2015
I never knew John, but I felt compelled to share my story with all of you that have made me realize just how special of a human he was.
My grandparents spent a lot of time on the boardwalk and apparently got to know him well enough at some point to commission two beautiful original paintings for their home. I know my grandfather finished building his home down here in Florida in 1974 and from what I understand they were requested in these sizes and styles for this house in particular. They have always gotten compliments over the years and they hold a special place in my heart, especially after reading about John after they passed and I inherited them. Originally I was curious about their value, but now I see they are priceless.
Thank you John, to this day you are still bringing smiles to peoples faces through your art. :)
October 14, 2015
Happy Birthdae Big John!! You are SO missed!
I love you cuz,
Dae
kelly hostetter
September 19, 2015
my 1st job was at the Palace amusements 38 years ago and thats where i met John Bass. I still have the jean jacket he painted for me 39 years ago and the light house mirror on my wall. I miss talking to him at Collingswood action and will never forget our great conversations and him asking me where seagulls sleep at night. RIP john can't believe you've been gone 6 years already.
John Redding
August 12, 2015
It is amazing that the friends and fans of John Bass are still writing remembrances six years after his passing. I remember John as bigger than life. I was just a teen from East Brunswick hanging out in Asbury Park at my brother-in-law's Pizza Stand on Ocean Ave (Guy's Pizza) and John would stop by. Guy has a brother Alan and I remember that Bass painted the side of his VAN. It was so cool. I also remember his hands being SO BIG that it was said he would do a painting for free if anyone had hands as big. He loves BRUCE too. God Bless You John.
David Winikates
August 12, 2015
I treasure ths time I spent with John in the 1970's. He was an amazing man. In fact he was my Best Man. I move, and I have missed him. By the way John, you still owe me a painting.
Lonnie. covington
April 21, 2015
John. Bass. Was. A. Great. Friend. I. Had. The. Honor of. Having. A. Bit. Part in. His. As. By. Bass. Jeans. Commercial. R.i.p. big. john
Donna Schockaert
May 31, 2014
I was 1o years old. It was about 1970-1973. . John would setup to paint outside of the apartments that we lived in Jackson, NJ. I watched him paint while we talked about everything. John was someone who offered me kindness. John was a guardian angel who would mysteriously appear when you needed help most. I would look forward to sitting with him while he painted. I hadn't seen John for a while. I was on the Boardwalk and noticed the huge crowd watching him paint. I walked up to him and asked how much would it cost for him to paint something for me. I started to explain how I knew him. John stopped me and said "Of Course I recognize you, Donna. Its been a long time." He never forgot. I have his painting that he painted especially for me hanging in my home. That was in 1983. I think of him often. He will truly be missed.
Sorry for your loss.
Michael Stridacchio
June 25, 2013
I just found out that John has passed away. I met John when i was 14. My dad owned Starlite Jewelers and Music and was also the owner of Radio Station WVRM where John was one of the DJ'S. He painted a picture of a huge canvas of the Mountains and a reindeer. This was in 1980. This picture after 33 years is still hanging on our wall. John RIP You were a good friend
Joan
May 17, 2013
I met John in 1979, when I opened a plant shop in Belmar, NJ. Was coming to the store when a blue volkswagon shouted me up on the cb radio. We spoke briefly and he followed me tomy store. The biggest black man I'd ever seen "unfolded" out of that little car, with the biggest smile I've ever seen. Never saw him without it from then on. I had just opened my store, and he decided to stand outside and do magic tricks to entice people into my store. Later weeks, he came inside and painted fantastic pictures, in less that 30 minutes, for anyone interested. We remained friends till my husband decided to move to Florida in the late 90's and we lost touch. Before I left, he painted a "goodbye, but not forgotten" painting, which occupies the best spot in my house to this day. The seetest, happiest, most easy-going man I've ever met. He's definitely missed.
Paul
April 15, 2013
I have had a picture painted by John since 1981 (I was 15 years old). I bought it in right after he painted it in the Casino hallway in Asbury Park. It seems like yesterday actually. I remember John just how the pictures show him. It's amazing to me that that little moment is etched in my memory and his name comes up every so often. I just learned of his passing and a few tears fell.
Nancy McGillis
November 30, 2012
So sorry to see that John has passed away. We were good friends for a while back in the beginning 80's. He took me to the track for my first time and we won! He was a wonderful man and I will think of him often and will always smile.
July 15, 2012
I have known John for over 30 years. I always looked forward to seeing him, at the racetrack, where i met him to boardwalk or the Rt 1 flea market. whether it was the painting or the magic he always brought a smile to my face and he had stories to tell. sometimes it would be years I went without seeing him . But even in his last year,he was still smiling and I will always remember him fondly. I am glad I have his paintings to brighten my house.He will be missed be many.
Keith
July 15, 2012
I have known John for over 30 years. I always looked forward to seeing him, at the racetrack, where i met him to boardwalk or the Rt 1 flea market. whether it was the painting or the magic he always brought a smile to my face and he had stories to tell. sometimes it would be years I went without seeing him . But even in his last year,he was still smiling and I will always remember him fondly. I am glad I have his paintings to brighten my house.He will be missed be many.
Dae Evans-Baldwin
May 18, 2012
Thinking about you cuz, as always, but moreso today. ??
Helena Dantoni
May 16, 2012
John....I hope you are reading all the wonderful things written here about you. I just want you to know I think of you often.
Harry S
May 15, 2012
I met John at Mrs. Jay's Beergarden in '78. He painted the most beautiful Mushroom scene on a T-Shirt I had. He was such a nice guy. I wish more people were like him. The world would be the Eden I am sure he is painting in right now...:) Thank you John....I never forgot.
katheryn vazquies
April 21, 2012
my condolences to the bass family. we purchased one of his paintings many, many years ago-a ship on canvase with a painted glass beach-beautiful! it hangs in our house to this day and will be cherised by us a long time. i am honored to have met this gentle man.
Debra M
April 15, 2012
I met John at the old Peddlers Village way back when..He was such a wonderful person ..I loved to watch him paint and my son was amazed as a kid. I also got to work with his brother Dave at the old Haunted Mansion in Long Branch way back when ...I have such good memories associated with John ...I hope he is painting the Angels in Heaven
jerry lanno
January 9, 2012
I met John in 1977 at the peddlers Village. he painted a picthur for me which i still have, he came by my home in Howell to buy it back, I said I wanted to keep it. I have it hanging in my home as of today.
Celebrating in Heaven :')
Dae B.
October 14, 2011
Hey Cuz!!! We all know what today is...Happy Happy 61st Birthday!!! You are missed immensely. I love you Big John!!!
Dae
Vicky
August 5, 2011
I spent most of my teenage years on the boardwalk in Long Branch. I remember watching him paint and he provided the inspiration for me to become and artist. He was a great, kind and gentle man. He made a difference in this world.
Brenda Casanova
April 2, 2011
My condolences to the Bass Family. He had painted my denim jacket back in the early 1980's with Bruce Springsteen, um, "stuff" - sneakers, guitar, a sax, etc, and it is a beauty. I still have it now in 2011 and it hasn't fit in many years :) but it is a wonderful memory, thank you....
Robert Jones
February 28, 2011
I lived in New Jersey for two years and attended school in Howell Township. I was just telling my wife about an extremely talented fellow student, John Bass, that I hadn't thought of in years. I told her that he had probably become famous so I googled his name to find what had become of him. I was so sad to see that he had passed from this life. I too remember him as a gentle and kind person. I am glad that he spent his life doing what he loved.
Devin Partyka
January 16, 2011
I met John Bass in the late 60's early 70's I am soon to be 56yrs. old and have to this day not met a kinder, gentler, entertaining person, I just looked him up on the internet only to find he has passed. He will surely be missed by many as he was as much Asbury Park as the boardwalk.
Diana Meeks-Dixon
September 7, 2010
Over the years I have thought of the gentle giant, John Bass, everytime I look at his painting that hangs in my house. It brings back memories of high school, Asbury Park and the man with the huge hands that created such joy.
Helena Dantoni
September 4, 2010
I ran into John after many years. It was like we never lost touch. He was an amazing, kind, generous man. He was my rock during the break up of my marriage. Staying up nights to give me a shoulder to cry on. Always calling to see if I was ok. I am honored to have spent time with him during the last year of his life. In and out of the hospital. He never complained about how he felt but was more concerned about others. John.... I'm sure you know what has happened in my life and I think I have made you proud.I couldn't have gotten here without you. Until we meet again.....
Donna
August 27, 2010
I have been trying to find out what happened to John for awhile. I remember playing guitar with him and John S. sometimes on the boardwalk. They were amazing times. John was one of the most wonderful men I have ever met. I remember the time a group of us went to the Inkwell afterwards and when the waitress came to get the check, he made it disappear. The look on her face was priceless. May God rest his soul. John, I'll see ya in heaven. - Donna with the 12 string
Dave Mowad
July 27, 2010
I own two of his paintings. He painted them in the late 70's for my parents. I was a little kid that grew up in Ocean Grove that enjoyed watching Mr. Bass paint as much as I liked the amusements. I'm an artist myself, and I can remember trying to emulate his style when I was seven. I would use giant exterior house brushes and gobs of paint and dream that I could have that personal freedom John had using any tool he put in his hand to paint. The world is an emptier place with you John.
Lindy Snow-Pierce
June 30, 2010
I hadn't done an internet search on John for awhile until tonight and discovered he had passed. Was hoping I'd run into him again next time I made it back to New Jersey. Does anyone remember in the 70's when he was a Santa Claus? What a riot. And every time he saw me he always picked me up like a baby and swung me around - even in front of my boyfriends, who didn't dare confront him. But they didn't know how sweet and kind he was! How sad to lose such a talented and fun person. My best wishes go out to his family.
Ouedia
May 3, 2010
Neither I nor my children will ever forget the name 'John Bass'. For a three year old to see a magician perform a magic trick and then be told that a true magician never tells his secret must have been disappointing. But then he was told the secret and taught how to do the trick. His face was beaming. He fell in love with John Bass. To this day he remembers John and that magic trick. John and I used to play guitar together for fun on occasion at his house and my daughter still remembers when he came to our house and taught me how to paint the palm tree over the ocean on the back of my blue jean jacket. I was so proud of that. "Don't be afraid of the paint" he told me. Today this advice has become one of my most valuable tools. Every time I pick up a brush the words come back to me. There are too many memories of John and Asbury Park and I tend to go on and on when I write so I just wanted to say that I am sorry that I or my children will never be able to see him again but I will remember him in my prayers every day.
April 25, 2010
John taught me to paint scenes on pants pockets over thirty years ago. He was a nice man and an amazing artist who made it "seem" so simple. I still have the practice boards and a winter scene he painted on a mirror for me. I also remember the amazing work he spray painted on vans. May he rest in peace and return again to grace us with his inspiration.
Denise Pecoraro
April 25, 2010
John taught me to paint scenes on pants pockets over thirty years ago. He was a nice man and an amazing artist who made it "seem" so simple. I still have the practice boards and a winter scene he painted on a mirror for me. I also remember the amazing work he spray painted on vans. May he rest in peace and return again to grace us with his inspiration.
Brian Martishewski
March 26, 2010
I just found out about his death. I had purchased some work and had him paint a few T-Shirts for me in the early eighties. He was unique. God Bless him. Ill always cherish his artwork, all of which I still have. I havn't even worn tweo of the T-Shirts. I didnt want to destroy ther work of art. I will wear them so that others can enjoy it. Im sure he is missed!
ROGER SEGALINI
March 13, 2010
Im not sure, but I believe this is the BASS that entered my business in 1974, selling velvet paintings. I asked if he could paint a picture of a harness horse, off a magazine cover.He said sure, I asked how much will it cost, he said dont worry not much.A week later he was back with a great painting on velvet. and for 36 years its been hanging in my living room, as one of my prize possession.
Joe Palumbo
February 28, 2010
I never had the pleasure of meeting John Bass but did enjoy his local cable show very much that in fact my wife purchased one of Johns light house paintings for my 40th birthday. It hangs in my beash house on LBI. It's signed Bass L2
God bless you.
Kathie Thomas
February 6, 2010
I knew John so many year ago that I don't even remember how or where we met. He was the kindest, gentlest person one could ever meet. He was a wonderful person and a great friend and artist. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. I know you're in Heaven John helping the Lord paint his beautiful sunsets!
Bobby Sidorski
January 18, 2010
John,when you get to heaven say "hey"to Donna
Bill Bonhag
January 12, 2010
I had the pleasure of meeting John through a friend of mine named JR. We worked for NJ Juvenile Justice. John graced us with his presence to speak with the kids at Fresh Start and display his gifted talent creating lighthouse scenes. May God preserve you in heaven as you were a pure gentle-man. Thanks for the memory.
Ray Werner
October 26, 2009
I met John when I was just a teenager.
He was a great magician. He took me to his apartment where he amazed me with his ventriliquist act. He was a true inspiration and today I am a professional magician because of my friend John Bass. Rest in peace my friend.
dae baldwin
October 14, 2009
Happy Birthday Big John. I know you're up in heaven painting on that big canvas that we call the sky. I love you and you are truly, truly missed.
Your Cuz,
Dae
Patricia Arroyo
September 29, 2009
My sympathies to Johns family, I have known John most of my life, I am 42 years old now, and as far back as 10 years old, I would ride my bike from Belmar to Asbury and sit with John on the boardwalk and draw with him. My sister, being 14 years older than me, went to Wall High with him and later through the years I came to live next door to him in Wall. He was a great inspiration to me and today I am a professional Fine Artist. Although our work is very different, I tribute much of my art history to him, being a struggling artist and living the dream, regardless of financial prosperity.
Thank you John, I will always remember you.
Patricia Arroyo
Bill seibert
August 17, 2009
My condolences to Johns family and Friends. I met John about 34 years ago, making and selling pictures frames for him on the asbury boardwalk (I was the tender age of 12). He was close to my mother Janice and helped her through some very difficult times in her life. He had a larger than life personality that I always admired. John, say
hello to Janice up there, I am sure she would like to talk to you.
Tammi Joyner
July 17, 2009
"To work magic is to weave the unseen forces into form; to soar beyond sight; to explore the uncharted dream of the hidden reality." -Starhawk
"Your diamonds are not in far distant mountains or in yonder seas; they are in your own backyard, if you but dig for them." -Russell H. Conwell
"Only the heart knows how to find what is precious." -Fyodor dostoyevsky
Tracy Kaiserian
July 8, 2009
To Dave Bass,
I was so sorry to hear about the loss of your brother John. My condolensces to your whole family.My dad had one of John's paintings hangin in his house.It is a nice remebrance
Felicia Conaway
July 2, 2009
iam john bass niece and i draw this like my uncle he was my hero.i love him so much i want be like him draw and paint like him.We miss you uncle love urs niece felicia!!!
Dawn Calpini-Tymesko
June 21, 2009
Dear Sharon, Belinda & Family, I had only had the opportunity to meet John a few times, however that was enough to see that he had a kind and gentle nature. When a painting I had bought from John was missing, he felt bad and immediately offered to paint me another one. I was impressed by his loyalty and the story that he told as he painted. It was great to spend that time with him, and hear his stories. I told him not to feel bad because that painting will mean more to me now. He will be missed by many. God bless your family.
Linda Caines-Robinson
June 14, 2009
I was sad to learn of John's passing. What a sweet spirit and talented artist. I have one of his beautiful paintings in my home and treasure it every moment. It always bring a smile on my face. He will surely be missed...Cousin Linda and the Robinson Family of Asbury Park
Laurie B
June 11, 2009
My family and I have known John forever it seems, and our paths have often crossed over the years. John was a true example of great faith and determination mixed with a healthy and vivid imagination. In spite of his trials in life-John was always quick to point out the blessings and praise the Lord. (I am sure he is doing a magic trick for him now.)
My deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to all of his family and friends. John will be sorely missed.
Another piece of the very foundation of the Jersey Shore.
Rest in wonderful peace my friend, I'll see you later......
(Hey John- When you get there, tell Larry we miss him too!)
Diane
June 8, 2009
My condolences to John's family.
I met John back in the early 80's where I enjoyed playing in his all woman band - as he painted while we played. I had not seen John in many years since then - and saw him at last year's Long Branch Art in the Park - It was great to see him again and see that he was still painting. John was a very talented artist and will be missed.
Ed & Kathrine Bastianelli
June 7, 2009
We both have known John for a number of years...We are saddened by his loss.
John always had so many stories to share with us. He was indeed a very interesting person and a wise man..John was extremely talented in both the music and art world. He was good natured, kind and polite to everyone. John touched people's lives. Even though John was not physically well, he always stopped by to see us..He greeted us with a big smile. He never complained. His comment was that he thanked God for everyday. I don't believe that John ever realized that he was an inspiration to others. We are proud to say that John was our friend..We will miss him.
Tim Marazita
June 5, 2009
If one were to take all of the wonderful things that are written in this guest book and meld them together, it still would not measure up to the man himself. He was everything that has been written here and more. Imagine how nice the world would be if it was completely populated by people like John.
Like so many of you, I too, spent many nights on the boardwalk with John. Doing the exact same things and with the same fabulous memories. I have never heard anyone say anything negative about him nor did he ever say a bad word about anyone else.
He always gave more than he took. To those who were not fortuitous enough to make Johns acquaintance, you have been denied one of life’s greatest treasures.
In closing let me reiterate, Dear John, that you will be missed by all those who knew you.
You shall never perish from my memory.
With deepest sympathy to your family.
Terrie Figner-LaMoria
June 3, 2009
I was very sad to hear that John passed. I first met him back in the 70s when I was a teen working in the boardwalk Casino. I always loved to visit with him and watch him paint. No matter how busy he was, he always had time for a chat. Later my family and I used to see him at Collingwood and Peddler's Village. What an amazing and talented man. Over the years I have told my children stories about him. Not only about his artistic talents, but also about his incredible magic tricks. To his family...I am so sorry for your loss. But please take comfort in knowing that John touched the lives of countless people, and his memory lives on in all of us.
Michele Linke
June 3, 2009
Dear family and friends of John, So long ago.., yet it seems to me like it was not more than the blink of an eye, I knew John. I was in awe of him from the first time we met. So gentle and kind. So softspoken, yet determined. I didn't understand how he could be so passionate, yet I wished I could be like he was. John asked me to stay in touch some years back. I had returned a painting to him which (he didn't think was one of his better ones) that I had come across. I always thought I would someday make some time. I wish I had at least done that. Peace be with you.
Ada,Bob,&Elsie Morton
May 31, 2009
WHAT A GIFT WE HAD HAVING JOHN IN OUR LIVES JOHN TAUGHT US TO ACCEPT WHAT GOD GIVES US ,TO BE KIND TO EVERYONE ,TO FORGIVE OTHERS AND TO LIVE YOUR LIFE FULLY YOU WILL BE TRULY MISSED JOHN,BUT UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN THANK YOU FOR BEING A TRUE FRIEND WHO WE DEARLY LOVE THE VIEWING FOR YOUR PASSING AT HIGGINS FUNERAL HOME WAS BEAUTIFUL YOU COULD FEEL THE LOVE FOR YOU AS WE LISTENED TO YOUR LOVELY FAMILY SPEAKING OF YOUR LIFE I KNOW YOU WERE SMILING DOWN ON ALL YOU FAMILY AND FRIENDS AGAIN I SAY UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN MY FRIEND WE LOVE YOU
Shawnee Pearce
May 30, 2009
I was lucky enough to have been close friends with John for the past ten years. He would always say "Herbert" whenever he would tell me a story about his mother. John was the biggest dreamer and always had another plan to make that million dollars. John was like a brother to me. My favorite part of our four times a week conversation were his "Johnisms" LOL. John is alive in all the paintings in our homes and hearts. Through your suffering you gave us strength and I will never forget my last visit with you when we both cried. I enjoyed working on his cable shows for three years, through all the laughter, pain and the tears, John you will live on forever; we love you. P.S. Sharon, I love you so very much and admire your courage and strength.
Greg&Sharon Kochmar
May 30, 2009
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Gil & Gail Byrnes
May 30, 2009
My family and I are saddened to hear that John passed away. We first met him at the old Casino building on the Asbury Park Boardwalk in the early 70's. We followed him through the years to Peddler's Village and Collingswood. Everyone in our family owns at least one "John Bass". Our living room was designed around three of his paintings. My brother in law, a Collingswoog devotee, recently began helping John get around in his chair while he was there. May John's soul rest in peace, and may he know of everyone who loved him.
Kim Arthur-Feiling
May 30, 2009
John was an incredibly talented, loving person who obviously touched many lives over his short years here with us. I met him over 35 years ago when he was friends with my brother but anytime I ran into him over the years he always remembered me. May all of our wonderful memories of him keep his spirit alive for many years to come. I hope the fact that he touched so many lives brings comfort to his family at this time. God Bless you John...and Thank you for blessing us all with your friendship!
Loretta Linke
May 30, 2009
John was a special friend to my sisters and me. Deep sympathy to friends and family. May you take comfort in Scripture and the fond memories of John and his art, knowing there is no more 'Blind faith; for he has found his way home' in the presence of the Lord:)
STEVE HARVEY
May 30, 2009
JOHN BASS WAS A TRUE ENTERTAINER.SEEMS HE COULD DO ANYTHING HE PUT HIS MIND OR OVERLY LARGE HANDS TO.I STARTED WORKING AND HANGING AROUND THE BOARDWALK AROUND 1970 AT NICK'S 5TH AVE FUNLAND AND HAD A
FRONT ROW SEAT OF THE JOHN BASS SHOW. I WOULD LOOK OUT ON THE BOARDS, AT THE RAILING, WHERE EVERYONE HUNG OUT AND SEE JOHN NITELY PLAYING GUITAR,DOING MAGIC ,EVEN PAINTING.HE WAS A BIG MAN, BIG LAUGH,BIGGER HEART.I HAVE RUN INTO JOHN SEVERAL TIMES OVER THE YEARS,ALWAYS RE-INTRODUCING MYSELF AND JOHN ALWAYS SAYING ,"I KNOW WHO YOU ARE MAN",AND WE WOULD TALK ABOUT THE OLD DAYS,SITTING ON THE BOARDS 3-4-5-AM ,ALWAYS A CROWD SINGING ,LAUGHING,ALL PART OF THE JOHN BASS SHOW..R.I.P BIG MAN..
Richard Thompson
May 29, 2009
To the Bass Family I first met John in Collingswood when I was selling at a table
and knew him from being on tv he was a great artist and a good friend I am lucky to have some of his work and will cherish them
for a long time God Bless the Bass Family
and REST in Peace John you will be missed.
Debbie Fisk
May 29, 2009
To the Bass Family, I am so sorry for your loss. I first met John when he had his studio's in Peddlers village and Collingswood. I use to watch the store for him every once in a while. He was such a wonderful man, so talented and pleasant to be around. I will truly miss him.
Albee Tellone
May 29, 2009
I knew John way back in the old days at the Upstage Club. My condolences to the Bass family.
Lorraine DeSimone
May 28, 2009
To John's family & friends,
John & I were the best of friends since the early '70s. He was definitely the last of the true artists of his time; and he peddled his art up to the very end.
I cherish the memories of all the times we got together to reminisce about the "good old days" in Asbury Park.
I'll forever remember him with a smile on my face and love in my heart.
I can just see him up there now - laughing & painting on that big 'ol "Boardwalk in the Sky".
Harriet Tilton
May 28, 2009
I knew John from collingwood auction he would sell his beautiful light house paintings there which i own 5 or 6 i always loved his paintings.He was such a kind and loving man and a friend.My condolences to all of Johns family & friends.
Robert pond
May 28, 2009
To the Bass family,He was a sweet man.May he rest in peace.Always carried himself with respect.My family knew him for 40+ years.He will be missed.
Carol
May 28, 2009
My deepest and sincere condolences to Donald and the entire Bass Family. I met John in high school and admired his extraordinary talent and zest for life. He always had a smile on his face and a great attitude. R.I.P.
sabo ernie
May 28, 2009
I knew John from high school and the summer days in Asbury Park. May his soul rest in peace. He was a good man
Lois
May 28, 2009
John was a wonderful, caring, talented person. He brought happiness to all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
I too, spent many nights on the boards with him and was with him for his Guinness World Records marathon.
My 'Bass on the' (his term for painting on the back pocket of bluejeans) is long gone, but I will always treasure the other paintings I have by him. I have often thought of him over the years, and he will never be forgotten. His spirit will live on in the hearts of all those who knew him.
My sincere condolences to his family and friends.
Michael McCoy
May 28, 2009
To the Bass Family, Especially Donald and Shirley. Please except my most heartfelt sympathies for your loss, my thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. But at the same time feel comfort in knowing that John is no longer suffering and has moved on to a better place and is sitting there waiting for us to join him. I know that it is difficult today to see past the sorrow, looking back in your memories will help comfort you. I know for certain that we never lose the people we love, even to death. Peace, Prayer and Blessings.
Joanne Voorhees
May 27, 2009
I have known John for 40 something years. Always a wonderful person with a huge heart. My condolences to the Bass family.
Toni Glenn
May 27, 2009
I remember John From sitting on the boards and sitting in the "garden" at Mrs Jays. John Had painted many of paintings for me that I graciously passed along to dear friends and famly. I will never forget what a kind and generous person he was and how talented he was also. My Dearest sympathies to his freinds and family. He will truly be missed.
Ted Gilliam
May 27, 2009
Dear Bass Family
I have know john for 25+ years.I was with him one summer night painting pics ont the board walk.He painted pics for 24 hours. He was trying to get into the Gunness book of world records.He was allways upbeat and never had a bad word.
I will miss you.God Bless
Kathryn Brooks
May 27, 2009
Dear Belinda, Sharon and family I did not know your brother, but I am sorry for your loss and my condolences to others that were special to him.
Kathryn and Rhydel Brooks Edgewater Park NJ
Wendy Morgan
May 27, 2009
A wonderful person has left us. I have known John for about 30 years and he was a wonderful person. The paintings were cool but my favorite was when he would do the magic tricks.
I hope he has finally found peace and I know he has found "REAL MAGIC". He was a beautiful, beautiful person.
My regards to the family
Kathy Bodnar
May 27, 2009
Dear Bass Family,
Oh, I remember going to school years ago with John and Don, and JoAnne was a few years a head of us in scool, and David was about 3 years behind us.
I remember John and Don always doing drawings and paintings, but always thought that John would go into music, but that didn't work out.
The last time that I had seen John was forever ago when he had a booth in what was, at that time, Peddler's Village, still painting aways like crazy.
John will be missed for his talent and his personlity. May God bless John and the rest of the family.
Kathy Bodnar
Jim and Angel R
May 27, 2009
John, you are a beautiful person, and your Spirit will live on in your paintings. You've been a wonderful friend for many years... we will miss you so much.
Helena Dantoni
May 27, 2009
I have known John since our boardwalk days, 1967. He was a caring and loving friend. I will miss him, his wisdom, his talent and the encouragement he has always given me. To the Bass family, my sympathy. He is gone but definately not forgotten.
May 27, 2009
I also remember Big John from the Asbury Park Boardwalk...he had the biggest (and most talented) hands around...So sorry for your loss...
J.G.
Debbie Hanlon
May 27, 2009
I remember John from the Asbury Park Boardwalk and also from the old Peddler's Village. What a great guy. I still have several of his paintings displayed. I have thought about him often throughout the years. He touched my heart and I will still think of him often.
Gary Crawford
May 27, 2009
Looking at one of your paintings on my living room wall right now. You will be missed, John. Thank you for letting us know you.
Beth Applegate
May 27, 2009
It was a great experience taping your cable show with you. Rich and I both enjoyed you sense of humor and happy spirit. Rest in peace our friend.
May 27, 2009
John will certanily be missed from this earth, although we know that he is in a much better place with our father in heaven. The Lord taught John how to paint, and he has called him home to help him paint that big ole' rainbow in the sky, so if you look up and see a different color in the sky, you'll know that's John just saying hi.
Our condolences to the family
Stevie & Debbie Davis (Freehold, N.J.)
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