Terry W. Bass

Terry W. Bass

Terry W. Bass passed away on July 16, 2024, surrounded by his family. He was 30,743 days old. He was born in Billings, MT to Jay M. and Helen Bass, and spent nearly all of his life in Montana. Terry married Carol Martin and together they had four children: Jon, Susan, Stacey, and Alisa, who were born and raised in Helena.

Terry's career began as a radio DJ in high school (KLAK), and he later became a prominent broadcaster and newsman, contributing significantly to the expansion of the IMN network across Montana over sixty years ago, and conducting the first live legislative broadcast from the capitol. Within his broadcasting time, he served as the Montana Highway Safety Director under Governors Babcock and Anderson, and later held various governmental, public relations, and lobbying roles. Terry was also especially known for his photography, establishing "World Headquarters: Terry Bass Photo" back in the 80's. You might still find a wooden token here and there.

Outside of work, Terry enjoyed spending time with his "old-guys morning coffee groups," indulging in ice cream dates, and keeping up with the latest technology. GO-GO-Gadget Dad! He was deeply devoted to his family, including his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. One of his favorite hobbies was photographing scenic Montana and nearby rural areas, and he spent countless days in Yellowstone/Southwest Montana taking photos.

Terry retired as the property manager of Colonial Terrace Apartments in 2021 after 30 years. He is remembered for his kindness, sense of humor, and unwavering support for his loved ones.

He is survived by his family: brother, Tim(Gretchen) of OR; children: Jon Bass (Becky), Susan Proul(Rich), Stacey Petersen(Chris), and Alisa Bass; his grandchildren: Courtney Bahny(Chris), Kama Thom(Nate), Coty Bass, Ryan Bass, Nicole Bass(Kale), Erik Bass(Lexie), Brekk Bass(Kelsey), Larissa Preller(David), and John Proul; He loved being a great-grandpa to his "little people": Dayson, Kenslee, Oliver, Theo, Krue, Kitch, Vivian, Hazel, Landon and our newest addition, Mikah; He is also survived by his best friend, Wally Peel, many long time good friends, and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by Carol, his wife for 58 years; his grandson, Reid; his parents and his great-grandparents.

The family is grateful to Marie Lavinder and the healthcare teams at Enhabit Health Care and St. Peter's Hospice for their care which allowed him to stay at home. --- Oh – and everyone needs a Susan.

Family will be receiving friends of both Terry and Carol, on Sunday, July 21, 2024 from 1pm – 3 pm, at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Avenue, in Helena.

A private family interment will be held at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his memory to Our Lady of the Rockies, 3100 Harrison Avenue, Butte, MT 59701. (www.ourladyoftherockies.org) or a charity of your choosing.

The microphone and cameras are faded, he has now signed off; please close your eyes and remember his legendary radio voice: "From Helena, Montana, I'm Terry Bass; Have a Great Day."

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Please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Terry.