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The family and friends mourn the passing of Richard Bass, a raconteur, traveler, scholar and old-fashioned gentleman. A ready wit, he possessed great charm and endless curiosity. Those who knew him could always count on far-ranging conversation, unsentimental sweetness and years of loyal friendship. All that, and endless puns, too. Born on January 12, 1944 in Philadelphia, PA, Richard was raised in Great Neck. New York, and schooled at the University of Pennsylvania. At Great Neck North Senior High school, he was co-editor of The Guidepost, one of the few school weeklies in the USA. At Penn, he was the center of a veritable salon of excited intellectuals, artists and musicians. Even at the height of the 1960’s anti-war counter-culture, Richard was never less than elegant, cordial and civilized. Surrounded by a student body in blue jeans and T-shirts, Richard stood out in his well-cut suits and dress shoes. As a lifelong Renaissance man, there was no subject that was beyond his interest. He reveled in the written word, reading and commenting on everything possible, with a special interest in history. Always inquisitive, Richard’s loved travel and always returned to the USA with a store of unusual insights and anecdotes. He was a senior Executive for Walter Kaye Insurance as a broker for 35 years, bringing a sense of stability and order to a chaotic insurance industry. His sophistication and calm left a lasting impression on his colleagues and a multitude of clients. He had many friends all over the world with whom he shard a mutual affection. He and his wife Linda split their time between Manhattan and Waccabuc, New York. He is survived by his wife, Linda and brother, Lawrence. He died on June 4, 2024, a young 80.
- Submitted by Matthew Robbins
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David Weschler
Hi Classmates,
Hope those who might read this are well and enjoying each and every day.
I knew Richard during high school and agree with the In Memory comments. He indeed was courtly, smart, wide-read, and always interesting. One note to add: he also was a good card player. I remember playing poker and 7-card stud(?) with Richard at Stephen Schwartz's house (Stephen, please rest in peace), in Kensington. Nominal or no stakes. During games, Richard often had a slight smile around his lips that seemed to me inscrutable as to what cards he held. His side-bars greatly added to our friendly patter. My colences to his wife and loved ones.
David Weschler
Kenneth Bardach
Hi David,
Thank you for your in memorium comments about Richard Bass. I did not know Richard very well during high school but your comment about him having "a slight smile around his lips..." brought back lucid memorials from a long-ago age. I join you in wishing RIP.
Ken Bardach
Richard Hirsh
Like so many of my classmates, I was saddened to learn of the passing of Richard Bass. The times we interacted during our high school journey always will be remembered as uplifting, enlightening and enjoyable. From my high school memories, Dick was a gentleman and a scholar. He was such a good listener and when asked for his input, his answers were always delivered with respect for and consideration of others. I have fond memories from when we met again at our 50th reunion. I was speaking with another one of our classmates when he came up to me and greeted me so warmly with a great smile and a genuine hug. He will be remembered for many things, but especially for his kindness.
I was very touched by the memories shared by Matthew Robbins, David Weschler, and Kenny Bardach. Gentlemen, well done. Perhaps if we're going to consider another reunion for the Class of 1961, we shouldn't wait much longer.
Be safe,
Dick Hirsh