Donald "Dink" Bass

Donald “Dink” Ray Bass died unexpectedly, Thursday May 18, 2023 in LaGrande, Oregon. Dink was born to Helen Edith (Zyph) and George Bass on his mother’s birthday, January 1, 1961, in Granite City, IL. Dink attended school in Granite City and Toppenish, WA. Dink lived in Illinois, Missouri, Washington, Texas, and Oregon throughout his life. He recently spent time in Louisiana, and Oklahoma.

Dink married Cheryl Smith in 1979 and they share three children, Greg, Desirae, and Scotty Ray Bass. After divorcing, Dink married Wanda and they have been married since. Dink and Wanda share many grandchildren.

Dink started his adult life working as a middle school custodian but spent the majority working in the construction industry. Dink had a specific love for Harley Davidson motorcycles and loved riding with his closest friends. Dink also enjoyed spending time with family and was known for his pragmatic sense of humor, nicknames for others, and making us laugh.

Dink is survived by his wife, Wanda, his three children, Greg, Desirae (Justin Boyd), Scotty Ray Bass (Ashley), stepdaughters, Joyce and Angela, brother Danny Bass (Carole) of Umatilla, OR., sisters Laurie Haggerty of Selah WA., and Gina Harris (Michael) of Wilsonville, OR. Multiple grandchildren, many nieces, and nephews, who share fond memories of their grandfather and uncle, and multiple aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Dink was preceded in death by his parents George and Helen (Zyph) Bass.

He will be missed beyond measure.

Visitation is scheduled Friday May 26, 1-5pm at Burns Mortuary, Pendleton, OR.