Michael E. Bass

Michael E. Bass, 70, passed away Monday, June 5, 2023 at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston after a long battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia.

Born July 29, 1952 in Chambersburg, PA, he was the son of the late Charles E. Bass, Jr. and Thelma G. (Millhouse) Bass.  He was a 1970 graduate of Central Dauphin High School.

Following high school he traveled to several states, ultimately landing in Oklahoma where he received his Bachelor of Architectural Studies in 1979 and Masters of Architecture in 1983 from Oklahoma State University. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother-in-law:  Joseph Doncevic.

Michael was an architect and retired in 2021, and remained a consultant. The bulk of his career was with the design/build firm Cutler Associates Inc., starting in 1991 as a Design Project Manager, and working his way up to Vice President of Design. He specialized in campus planning and preservation; on the campuses of Clark University, WPI, University of New Hampshire, Philips Exeter Academy, Smith College, Mount Holyoke College, Berklee College of Music, University of Maine, and many more. Many of his projects lasted multiple years and spanned across many buildings. He was especially proud of the long lasting relationships he formed.

Stubborn yet funny with a quick wit, Michael was loyal and true to those he held dear. He adored doting on his two grandsons, was an avid gardener, automotive enthusiast, lover of classic films and TV, and treasured a wide variety of music.  He loved catching a show at the Bull Run in Shirley, MA.  As a younger man he enjoyed hunting but as the years passed he took a liking to fishing.  Michael loved to cook and grill for friends and family. He was also interested in photography, and loved to visit with friends and family in Pennsylvania.

Michael was a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), the Central Massachusetts Chapter of Boston Society of Architects (AIA/BSA), the Society of College and University Planners, and the Trust for Historic Preservation. He served on the building committee for the Maynard Public Library.

Surviving are his children:  Ian B. Bass, Fairfax, CA and Suzanna B. York (and her husband, Anthony York), Phoenix, AZ; his sisters: Cynthia Doncevic, Harrisburg and Juanita Nightwine, Dauphin; 2 grandchildren: Dominic and Rhone; nieces and nephews; and many friends.

Graveside Services will be held 11:00 am Thursday, June 15, 2023 at Riverview Cemetery, Halifax.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your local public library.

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Kimmel Funeral Home, Harrisburg, is handling arrangements.