BAST, Charles A.

Charles A. Bast age 73, died tragically on Friday, April 15, 2011. Our beloved husband, stepfather, step-grandfather, brother, friend, confidant and the eldest of eight children was born December 22, 1937 to Ned and Violet (Vanzo) Bast in Edwardsville, IL. Charlie served in the Christian Ministry in Tucson for 33 years. He was also on the Board of St. Mary's Hospital and Director of Catholic Social Services during his ministry. Later, he and Mary operated a Bed and Breakfast in Greer, AZ for 14 years. He was a founding member of "Music for Greer", a member of the Greer Fire District Board and Apache County Planning and Zoning Board. In his all too short five years of retirement, he continuously improved his home and enjoyed the quiet rural life in San Manuel, AZ. His volunteering continued for the San Manuel Historical Society and he was the Chairman of the Founders of "Copper Town Days" in San Manuel. Preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Rita. Survived by his loving wife of 17 years, Mary; stepchildren, Cindy Palmer (OK), Roger Lawrence (OK) and Sherry Lawrence (AZ); four step-grandchildren; siblings, Tom (Dotty) Bast (AZ), Jan Ewald (AZ), Loretta Mogan (MN), Gary (Debby) Bast (AZ), John (Debby) Bast (MO) and Paul (Mary) Bast (MO); nieces and nephews, numerous cousins and many dear friends. Memorial Mass will be celebrated 10:00 a.m., Saturday, June 4, 2011 at Our Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church, 1800 S. Kolb Road, Tucson, AZ. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Charlie's memory to St Elizabeth of Hungary Clinic, 140 W. Speedway, Tucson, AZ 85705. Arrangements by BRING'S MEMORIAL CHAPEL, 236 S. Scott.