Obituary for Marie (Gagna) Bass

Marie (Gagna) Bass was born on August 3, 1923 in Toulon, France.  She passed away on November 29, 2018 in Westerville, Ohio with her family by her side.   Marie was raised in Toulon by her aunt and uncle starting at the age of 14 after her mother's passing.  She is an only child. She completed France's equivalent of high school and taught herself English by watching soap operas when she came to the United States.  She had fond memories of dressing up for Toulon's annual festivals and parades. She also enjoyed the beaches of the French Riviera.  Her life was filled with extraordinary experiences and loving acquaintances.  Marie went to work full time at the age of 16 at a department store in Toulon. When  the Nazis occupied her hometown, she began making false passes to allow individuals to move freely after the imposed curfew.  She was helped by dear friends who owned a bakery and was often given bread beyond her ration limit.  After her hometown was liberated, she moved to Marsielle, France and worked for the U.S. government in administration. She her met her husband, Otis, after the war in Marsielle. They were married on January 23, 1946.  After their marriage they were stationed in Germany for two years before coming to the United States.  Marie continued working various jobs throughout her life.   

She enjoyed her granchildren and many hugs from her great grandchildren in her last days. She returned to France several times and was able to introduce all of her grandchildren to her culture, friends and hometown of Toulon. Marie was preceded in death by her husband Otis, daughter Michele Butler and son-in-law Lee Butler.  She is survived by her son John (Linda) Bass, grandchildren Michael (Christy) Bass, Tiffany (Nate) Baldwin, Scott (Rachel) Butler, Andrea (Kirk) Rinehart, Rachel (Maj. Paul) Crites, Emily (Frank) Glinski and Nora (Hans- to be family in August ) Bass.  Her loving great-grandchildren include Julius, Lucas, Emma, Lucy, Cohen, Maggie, Phoebe, Max, Harper, Beau, Finn and Harlow.  

Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St Paul the Apostle, Westerville, at 10:30 on Tuesday, December 4, with visitation one hour prior to service.  Private burial will follow at St Joseph Cemetery.  

The family wishes to thank Hospice of Central Ohio for thier kind and loving care of Marie and interest in her life story.  Special thanks to Shyla and Susan.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Hospice of Central Ohio, 805 Hillsdowne Road, Suite A, Westerville OH 43081 .