Manfred Gunther Bass

Manfred G. Bass, 82, of Mountainside, NJ, passed away on Sunday October 8, 2017. Visitation will be 5:00-9:00PM Wednesday October 11, 2017 at Gray Funeral Directors, 318 E. Broad St., Westfield, NJ, where a private funeral service will be held on Thursday October 12, 2017. Interment will follow in Hollywood Memorial Park, Union, NJ.
Manfred was the son of the late Herta and Helmut Bass. He was preceded in death by his son Glenn, his brother Gerhard, brother-in-law: Joseph Mish, and sister-in-law: Marian Bass. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 53 years, Marion (nee Knitter), daughter Laura, and grandson, Richard. He is also survived by sisters: Edel Freitag and husband William, Inge Mills, Marianne Mish, Elizabeth Soos and husband William, brother: Walter, and sister-in-law: Bette Bass. Manfred was also the loving uncle to 17 nieces and nephews. The Bass family remains a close-knit family, sharing holidays and vacations together.
At an early age, Manfred's teachers recognized his artistic ability and fostered the beginning of a career in art and sculpture. He graduated from the New York Phoenix School of Design with honors, and served in the US Army.
For over 40 years, Manfred was the chief designer of the annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. In addition to designing and building the floats, Manfred was in charge of balloon design. Manfred was also a key part in Macy's 4th of July Extravaganza in the New York Harbor.
Manfred and Marion had a summer cottage on Lake Wallenpaupack, PA, where family and friends gathered for good times.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: St. Jude Childrens Research Center, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or to: Compassionate Friends, PO Box 3696, Oakbrook, IL 60522.
Please go to: www.grayfuneralhomes.com to offer condolences.