James Morris "Jim" Bass

SAN ANGELO James Morris "Jim" Bass passed away Friday, Aug. 20, 2010, at his home in San Angelo, Texas, at the age of 97. Jim was born Jan. 22, 1913, in Brownsville, Texas, to John Isador and Mary Alberta Bass. It was during Jim's youth in his hometown of Paris, Texas, when the automobile first became a significant part of his life. He was working parttime in garages and gas stations and soon realized he enjoyed being around anything related to cars. After attending Paris Junior College, he went to work for an auto parts business. Jim worked for Ford Motor Company in the Dallas district office for more than 15 years. As part of his job, he would travel throughout West Texas calling on Ford dealerships. It was during this time, he became aware of San Angelo and the possibility of living here. In 1961, Jim was able to purchase the San Angelo Ford dealership with his friend from the Dallas area, Lee Jarmon. From the beginning and for 49 years, Jim was passionate about all aspects of Jim Bass Ford ? the products sold, the services provided, his customers, but perhaps most notably, his employees. His affection for everyone associated with any part of the dealership was evident to all who worked for him. After Jim's move to San Angelo, he met Irene and her daughter, Cheri. On July 5, 1962, in Corpus Christi, Texas, Jim and Irene, were married and with their children, Leslie, John and Cheri, became the original "Bass Bunch." Jim and Irene purchased a ranch in 1991, and spent many memorable times there enjoying the wildlife and being outdoors. He really got a kick out of driving around the ranch and feeding his guard donkey, Poncho. In later years, his hobbies were politics, naps and a never-ending involvement in his businesses. Among Jim's other passions was his love of his country. Being a World War II veteran, he whole heartedly supported our armed forces and all military service personnel. Jim was a member of First United Methodist Church, a member of the Rotary Club and a Paul Harris Fellow and active in the San Angelo community, serving on various boards and organizations. He was a steadfast supporter of the Lighthouse for the Blind, the United Way and Meals for the Elderly. Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Irene Bass; his sister, Evelyn Leary; and his cousin and best friends, Butchie and Bill Bryan. He is survived by his son, James M. Bass Jr. of Fort Worth; his daughter and son-in-law, Leslie and Greg Gossett; his son and daughter-in-law, John and Jeannie Bass; and his daughter, Cheri Holt, all of San Angelo. Also surviving Jim are his grandchildren, Jimmy Bass and wife Stefanie, Kelley Rivalta and husband Reno, Stephen Gossett and fiance Catherine King, Sarah Cypert and husband Wade, Allison Chapman and husband Matt, Melanie Bass, James Holt and David Holt and wife Stephnie; and his 13 great-grandchildren, Chelsea, Adyson, James, Jayce, RJ, Bella, Klaire, Lily, Wayd, Austin, Brendan, Mackenzie and Hailey. Also surviving Jim are his dear niece, Carolyn Reidy of Loveland, Colo.; and his very special friends, Frances and John South of San Angelo. The Bass family would like to express their sincere appreciation to Hospice of San Angelo and to the special ladies at Angelo Health Care ? Mariza, Sylvia, Julia, Renee and Lupe ? and all the others who pampered, spoiled and survived hours of Fox News at high volume. Following a private graveside burial, there will be a celebration of Jim's life at 10 a.m. Monday, Aug. 23, at First United Methodist Church of San Angelo, 37 E. Beauregard Ave. Dr. Ricky Burke of First United Methodist Church and the Rev. Ben Hubert of First Christian Church of San Angelo will officiate. Memorials may be made to Meals for the Elderly, 310 E. Houston Harte, San Angelo, Texas 76903, or your favorite charity. Family and friends may sign an online register book at johnsons-funeralhome.com.