Riley 1962 Leonard Monroe Bass

Oct. 29, 1944 - Dec. 14, 2017

SOUTH BEND - Leonard Monroe Bass (Chatman) closed his eyes and felt pain no more on Thursday, December 14, 2017, in Holy Cross Sanctuary, South Bend, IN. Leonard was born October 29, 1944 in Chicago, IL to Vernon Estol and Francis Pauline Bass (Trice-Chatman). Leonard grew up in South Bend and Mishawaka, IN attending Riley High School before enlisting in the U.S. Army, where he received an honorable discharge. Leonard was a general laborer and worked for several local businesses in the area. His memorable days were spent harmonizing tunes with his buddies who formed the ENCOS singing group. Family and friends will remember Leonard's enjoyment of laughter, jokes, and good food.

Leonard's father, mother and stepfather, Henry Chatman pre-deceased him as well as his son, Verdell Bass of Syracuse, NY; and brothers, Ronald Chatman, Paul Chatman, and Kirkland Chatman. Surviving family who will remember Leonard are his wife, Terry Bass; and their daughters, Brandy Bass and Dayna Hudson (Arnellis) all of Chicago, IL; daughter, LaDonna Thompson of Mishawaka; and daughter, Dana Chism and son, Derrick Chism of Long Beach, CA. Leonard also leaves 19 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

Leonard's living siblings and their families are: Ann Stalter (Bass-Chatman) (Bob) of AZ, Geraldine Parhm (John) of Mishawaka, Senora Mitchell (Henry) of NY, Henry Chatman Jr. of CA, Arthur Chatman of NY, Raymond Chatman (LaVada) of South Bend, Debbie Paraham of AZ, and Angelette Stinson (Brian) of UT. Local family who provided loving support are niece, Paulette Murphy; and nephews, Patrick Chatman (Denise) and Kirk Neal (Tara) and their families. Leonard also leaves many additional nieces, nephews and friends.

Elkhart Cremation Services is entrusted with arrangements and on-line condolences are welcome. Family will receive guests for an Open House and Celebration of Life on Friday, December 29, 2017 from 7:30-8:30 pm at the Main Street Apartment Club House, Granger, IN.

Published in South Bend Tribune on Dec. 24, 2017

jmc 24 dec 2017