Dr. Joe Bas

Joe Bas Antongiorgi

Joe was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico on October 21,1932 to Jose Bas Aguilar and Lucia Antongiorgi. At the age of 20, Joe moved to the United States where he was immediately drafted into the United States Army. He served two years and was honorably discharged in 1956.

While working nights, he earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Cal State University Long Beach and became a teacher. While working at La Mirada High School, he met the love of his life and wife, Donna, in 1961; they married on June 23, 1962. He continued his education at the University of Southern California earning a Master’s Degree and a PhD.

Dr. Bas taught at Cal State University San Bernardino for 35 years. He was chair of Foreign Language, President of the Senate, and union representative for the State Colleges. Additionally, Dr. Bas was instrumental in developing the curriculum for the State College system.

Joe and his wife raised their family in Lake Arrowhead, California. He loved his family, the outdoors, sports, and traveling. He spent his free time coaching his sons’ youth baseball and football teams, and camping with his family and “Past Tents” friends. Aside from his wife and children, Joe’s biggest pride and joys were his eight grandchildren.

Joe, a cowboy at heart, could always be seen wearing a cowboy hat and a bolo tie. He never missed an opportunity to tell his favorite jokes, sometimes more than once, or make rabbit ears out of cloth napkins. He had a fantastic sense of humor, a superb group of life-long friends and colleagues, and a loving family. He loved this country and the opportunities it afforded him. He worked hard, remained persistent, and had deep faith throughout his life.

Joe and his wife enjoyed a beautiful retirement filled with adventures, grandchildren, friendships, and Air Force Academy sporting events.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.MtViewMortuary.com for the Bas family.