Joseph Bass, 81, of Allentown, passed away in his home on May 19, 2012. He was the husband of Elaine Rappaport-Bass. Born in Philadelphia, he was the son of the late William and Anna (Goldberg) Bass. Joseph graduated from Northeast High School in Philadelphia and Villanova College. He was the Eastern PA District Manager for W.T. Grant & Co. for 23 years and then co-owner of Bright’s Country Kitchen in Lehighton, PA for 20 years before retiring. He also worked part-time as a facilitator/receptionist for Weight Watchers of Eastern PA. He served as president of the Country Crossing Homeowners Association as well as other board positions. He was a member of Temple Beth El and served on the committee of its Memorial Park Association. He was also an assistant coordinator for the Chevra Kadisha (the Jewish Holy Burial Society). He served on the Board of Associates of Muhlenberg College where he was a member of the group called Charlie’s Roundtable as well as the Advisory Council of Lehigh County for Aging and Adult Services. Joseph loved the saying “The Highest Form of Wisdom is Kindness” and that is how he lived his life; with so much kindness and goodness. He was so caring in his quiet, gentle manner. He truly was a special gem of a person and will be sorely missed by not only his caring wife, but by all his many loved ones and friends who feel blessed that he was part of their lives.

SURVIVORS: Wife; Sons, Kenneth Bass of Allentown and David (Bass) Brown of Philadelphia; Step-son, Eric Rappaport and his wife Choty of Allentown; Step-Grandchildren, Joshua Rappaport, Michelle and Gabby Maramag; Step-son, Harris Rappaport of California; Two nephews, their wives and children, as well as many loved ones and friends.

SERVICES: 11 am Monday, Temple Beth El, 1305 Springhouse Rd., Allentown, 18104. Interment will follow at Beth El Memorial Park. Shiva will be observed at the Bass home. Arrangements by Bachman, Kulik & Reinsmith Funeral Home, Allentown.

CONTRIBUTIONS: Contributions may be made to Temple Beth El or to Congregation Keneseth Israel, 2227 W. Chew St., Allentown, 18104.