Vern Bass

Vern Bass, age 61, of Truman, formerly of Fairmont, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on October 31, 2020 after a courageous 12-year battle with cancer. A memorial service will be held on Friday, November 6, 2020 at 2 PM at the Truman Church of Christ with Pastor Merrill Davis officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior at the church.  Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic restrictions and guidelines, masks are required, and social distancing will be enforced  Those wishing to attend remotely, may do so via a live-stream of the service on the funeral home website. Zaharia Family Funeral Home in Truman is entrusted with arrangements. www.ZahariaFamilyFuneral.com

Vern Paul Bass was born on October 6,1959, the son of John Wesley and Valeta Mae (Koch) Bass in Westbrook, Minnesota.  He was the youngest of 5 children.  He attended school in Westbrook, graduating with the class of 1978.  He went on to continue his education at Austin Vo-Tech, earning his degree in 1980. He married Tammy Ries on December 17, 1994 at Grace Lutheran Church in Fairmont.  To this union a son, Wesley, was born.  Vern was the City Forrester for the City of Fairmont for many years, responsible for the beauty of the area through trees and flowers.  This came home with him as he was an avid flower gardener and also enjoyed the hobby of photographing his gardens. Music played an important role in Vern's life, through the lyrics and sounds, he held the meaning and feelings music evoked close to his heart.  Vern was a member of the Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association as well as served as a deacon at the Truman Church of Christ.  

Vern's legacy is that of an extension of God's hands through his service to others and being optimistic in life's circumstances.  He was always willing to lend a helping hand and had a great outlook on life. Vern retired in 2011 when his diagnosis and battle no longer allowed him to work. He had a love for his family and friends, as well as classic cars, especially Mustangs.  Memories of fishing trips up north will not be forgotten. 

Vern is survived by his wife of 25 years, Tammy Bass of Truman; son, Wesley Bass of Truman; sister, Carol Pankonin of Lamberton; brothers, Marvin Bass of Bloomington, Kenneth (Dawn) Bass of Walnut Grove and Leo (Marty) Bass of Marshall; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.  

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his parents-in-law, Lavern and Shirley M. Ries and brother-in-law, Russell Pankonin.  

To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of Vern Bass, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.