A Wonderful Gift
Nadean Elizabeth Wake Bass was born on September 2, 1932 in Leavenworth, Kansas to Edward and Valdeanus Wake. She was the fourth born of six children; Emmelene, Edward Jr., Lee, and Doris. Her siblings and parents preceded her in death.
A Time to Journey
Bass was raised in Kansas City, Kansas. She was a member of the Walnut Blvd. Baptist Church in Kansas City, Kansas. She attended Stowe Elementary, Northeast Jr. High and graduated from Sumner High School. She pursued her interest to become an educator at Pittsburg State Teachers College in Pittsburg, Kansas earning a B.S.Ed. While in college, she met the love of her life – Robert A. Bass, Sr.
On August 25, 1953, Nadean and Robert were married. They moved to Seattle, Washington in 1957. Most of their married and professional lives were spent in Seattle, with their three children; Mary Elizabeth, Robert Jr. (Bobby), and David Wayne. Bass taught physical education to elementary school students in the Seattle Public School system for over twenty years. Upon moving to Seattle, she joined Mt. Zion Baptist where she was a faithful, active member. She enjoyed singing in the Sanctuary Choir and Women’s Chorus
A Mother’s Devotion Made Changes for All
Nadean and Robert’s youngest child, David, has a developmental disability. She and Robert were told by doctors, medical professionals and many others to put their son David in an institution. But Nadean was adamant and told them all, “I’m keeping my child! No one will take my child. I love him and will raise him.” Today David is an engaging, loving, spirited young man full of life.
She and Robert met with a small group of other parents who also had children with developmental disabilities. They worked towards obtaining resources and schooling for their children. They worked to ensure that the needs of their children were met. Soon these parents became advocates for children with disabilities and along the way they became political activists. From this group came mothers who co-authored legislation that was the forerunner to the national law that protected educational rights for people with disabilities. They made history. Parents and children are benefitting today because of a mother’s love – a mother’s love of her child – Nadean’s love for David.
Another outcome of Bass’ activism, was Northwest Center, where in the early years, Bass was active in fundraising for and volunteering. Today, Northwest Center for People of All Abilities is a premier organization and on-going concern.
She enjoyed traveling with her family in their motor home to national parks and campgrounds. They traveled up and down the West Coast and took their children to all the states west of the Mississippi River visiting historical sites and meeting people. They drove from Seattle to the East Coast a couple of times as well. Bass would spend time with her mother, Valdeanus and extended family in Kansas City, Kansas and Kansas City, Missouri. She spent precious quality time sitting on the front porch with her mother visiting with friends and greeting neighbors.
Bass enjoyed her home and friends in Seattle too. She would play Bid Whisk, Yahtzee, Dominos, and Scrabble with great enthusiasm and lots of laughs. She was a fantastic Scrabble player. In addition to her love of playing board games and cards, she enjoyed watching sporting events; skating, tennis, basketball, and gymnastics were her favorites.
A Time to Depart
Bass transitioned into Perfect Peace on Mon., December 24, 2018. She leaves to cherish her memories and spirit: her daughter, Mary and son, David; and many, devoted relatives and friends.
From the beginning, Bass was taught by her loving parents, but her mother Valdeanus taught her perseverance, a strong work ethic and what it means to be a “mom”. Her mother lost her husband – the father of her six children – when Bass was eight years old. Many people wanted to help by taking one or two children. Valdeanus was determined to keep her children… all of them… together in their home. She would never parcel them out. So she worked as a domestic, cleaning and serving others. She was a proud, proper, dignified woman who showed everyone around her what a mother’s love could accomplish. She kept her children, ALL SIX… in their home… together as a family where she loved and raised them.
Bass was a devoted wife, mother, educator, and friend effectively and passionately combining her love of family, career, church and community to near perfection. Her life exemplified the fruit of perseverance, patience, faithfulness, and spirit.
God has made everything beautiful in its time
and has also set eternity in your hearts.
Nadean is the creativity of God from beginning to end.
Her eternity resides within our hearts.
