[Baase Photo]

Baase, Herman G.
(1920 - 2007)

Born May 11, 1920. Entered into Eternal Rest October 11, 2007.

Herman G. Baase, 87, of West Seneca, NY, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 11, 2007 under the compassionate care of the nursing staff at Absolute Care/Waters of Orchard Park Health Care Facility.

He was born in Danzig, Germany, and came to America in September of 1923. A U.S. Army Veteran of World War II, he served his country honorably while attached with the 110th Infantry Regiment 28th Division. He and his brother George received their orders following time spent together in England. His brother's orders brought him to Normandy Beach where he was killed in action, and Herman was sent to Germany where he was wounded in battle. His will persevered as he spent three days, including Christmas, in a congested boxcar on his way to a P.O.W. camp.

During that horrific journey, Herman and his fellow soldiers were forced to survive fighting over rotten potatoes for sustenance. His German heritage aided in his survival as he was able to understand the language of the German soldiers. The desperation of the times was further witnessed as the soldiers would melt candy bars received in care packages from the Red Cross in order to prolong their lasting. His valiant service to his country was recognized through his adornment with the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart.

Following his release and the end of the war, he returned to the U.S. and was married to Margery Colvin, a union which lasted 61 blessed years. Together they lovingly raised a family of six children. He was patriarchal and family oriented, always placing the needs of his wife and children before himself and never asking for anything in return. His most cherished moments were always the family get togethers, especially around the holiday seasons. Christmas Eve dinners were particularly special times for him and his family, and Herman was known for his holiday decorations.

Herman was employed by Bethlehem Steel for 35 years, until his retirement in 1983. He was a proud member of the Harvey D. Morin VFW Post 2940 and was well revered throughout the VA Hospital, where he would often meet men with whom he served.

Herman is survived by his beloved wife Margery (Colvin), sons George (Barbara), Paul (Dawn), Patrick, and Richard, and daughter Carol. He is predeceased by his daughter Kathleen. Also surviving are five cherished grandchildren, his brother Charles (Irene), and numerous nieces and nephews. A mass of Christian burial was held Monday, Oct. 15 in St. Bonaventure R.C. Church at 9 a.m. This obituary has been created and edited compliments of the Kazmierczak Funeral Home, Inc. in accordance with the wishes of Herman's family, kindly consider donations in Herman's memory to Hospice Buffalo, Inc.

Source: Am-Pol Eagle, Thursday, October 18, 2007.