The men and women of the Los Angeles Fire Department join generations of firefighters in mourning the loss of retired Vernon Fire Chief and fire service historian George "Smokey" Bass.

George "Smokey" Bass
1931 - 2011

George Francis Bass (February 17, 1931 - August 13, 2011) was born in Los Angeles, the only child of Mary Francis Connelly and James Bass. He was an avid fire buff and earned the name "Smokey" in his early years as he followed fire engines to fires and often smelled of smoke.

He joined the Vernon Fire Department in 1953 and was active for thirty-five years, progressing through the ranks. The last ten years he served as that city's Fire Chief and Fire Marshal.

Smokey was passionate about the preservation and appreciation of fire service history, especially in Los Angeles. He was a founding member of The Box 15 Club of Los Angeles.

We invite you to join us in remembering George "Smokey" Bass...

Funeral Mass:

Saturday, August 20, 2011
10:00 AM
St. Cyprian Catholic Church
4714 Clark Avenue
Long Beach, CA 90808

In lieu of flowers, the family has kindly requested donations be made to:

Parents Against Cancer, Inc.
P.O. Box 90213
Long Beach, CA 90809-2644.

You may also express condolence to his family and friends via a special on-line guest book.

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department