Mark J. Bash

Dr. Mark J. Bash, passed away peacefully Monday evening, August 26, 2024 at his home in Largo, Florida with his family. He was born November 23, 1946, in New London, Connecticut, lived in Largo, Florida, and previously lived in Livonia and Essexville, MI. He married Judith K. (Wild) Bash, whom he wed on September 11, 1971, at Evangel Baptist Church, Taylor, Michigan, at their "Wild-Bash" wedding.
Mark, a "military brat," lived in six states and the Panama Canal Zone before settling in Westfield, MA, where he completed high school. He graduated from Michigan State University in 1969 with a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine. Mark practiced veterinary medicine in Massachusetts, Louisiana, and Michigan, covering roles in the Department of Agriculture, small and large animal care, relief and emergency work, and as the sole owner of two veterinary hospitals. Mark enjoyed 47 years of practicing veterinary medicine, including 17 years at Greenview Veterinary Clinic in Detroit and 32 years at Pine Veterinary Clinic in Essexville, MI.
Mark's love for his family was evident in every aspect of his life. He married his sweetheart, Judi, and for 53 years, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and faith. He was a devoted father to their four children Brian T. Bash (Jessie) of Holland, Pennsylvania, Jason A. Bash (Mo) of Greenville, South Carolina, Kimberly D. (Bash) Kirkpatrick (Mark) of Essexville, Michigan and their precious daughter Shelly Lynn Bash who passed away on March 31, 2005. Mark instilled in them the values of kindness, integrity, and the importance of a strong moral foundation. His legacy continues through his eight grandchildren, Riley and Carter Bash, Zachary and Emily Bash, and Abigail, Jonathan, Matthew, and Samuel Kirkpatrick. They will remember their grandpa for his gentle spirit, playful nature, and the countless stories he shared.
Mark and Judi enjoyed camping, playing games, spending time with family and friends, attending Gospel concerts, and shooting his bow and arrow with the grandkids. Mark also loved watching old war movies, learning about war details, and sharing his knowledge with others.
Mark is also survived by his sister Patricia (Bash) Nally (Tom), who resides in Cape Cod, MA, and who always reminded him to "Be Good"! and her family, including daughter Lauren (Mike) Lappini and grandchildren Jake and Emma. As well as brother-in-law Dr. Dennis (Donna) Wild and their children Justin and Caitlyn of Hawthorne, CA.
Mark and Judi faithfully attended church wherever they lived, serving at South Baptist Church of Bay City and "snowbirds" at New Testament Baptist Church of Largo and current members of Calvary Church of Clearwater. They also cherished lifelong friendships at First Baptist Church of Bay City, where Mark served as Deacon and Trustee and taught high school and adult Sunday school. Mark humorously claimed to be the original creator of "PowerPoint" with his early use of poster boards and other displays for his lessons.
Mark is predeceased by his parents, John Jr and Bernice Bash, Troy Edwin and Christine Wild, Shelly Lynn Bash, and many close friends and relatives. He loved life, finding joy in laughter, crying easily at movies or songs, and studying God's Word daily despite his declining health from MSA. Having come to know the Lord at age 25, he aspired to live by the song "This Little Light of Mine, I'm going to let it shine"! While singing was not his talent, he now joyfully sings in Heaven. His life Bible verse was Matthew 5:13-16.
Funeral service will be at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 3, 2024 at the Penzien-Steele Funeral Home, 608 N. Madison Ave. in Bay City. Pastor Tom Townsend officiating. Private burial will take place at Floral Gardens Cemetery. The family will be present to greet guests on Tuesday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, those desiring to make a memorial contribution are asked to consider Camp Barakel or wishes of the family.