William Robert “Bob” Bastian. Bob was born in Williamsport, PA, on Oct. 21, 1938, and died at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown, PA, on July 13, 2019, as the result of a farm accident. Bob is the son of Fred and Grace Bastian, and was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Jack of Cherry Hill, NJ; and his sister, Jean and her husband Dave of Richboro, PA. Bob is a 1956 graduate of Williamsport Senior High School, a Penn State graduate, and a graduate of the Cornell University Veterinary School in 1963. Bob married Susan Klepper of Muncy, PA, on June 23, 1962. He is survived by his wife of 57 years; two sons, Timothy (Anne) of State College, PA, Scott (Jill) of Friedens, PA; and three daughters: Janet Lenze (Don) of State College, PA, Beth McKenzie (Tracy) of Youngsville, NC, Angie Bastian of Johnstown, PA; and by 16 grandchildren and four of their spouses. Bob is a veteran of the United States Air Force, achieving the rank of captain. Bob practiced veterinary medicine in Centerville, MD, for 2 1/2 years, and eventually settled in Somerset County, PA, where he practiced for over 30 years. In November of 1998, Bob was elected to the Pennsylvania State House of Representatives, representing Somerset and parts of Bedford County for 10 years. Bob was a member of numerous civic and agricultural organizations. He enjoyed farming, working in his wood lot, gardening, and being with family, especially the trip to Sandbridge Beach in Virginia each summer. Bob was a member of St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church of Somerset, PA. A memorial service will be celebrated at Somerset Area High School auditorium on Saturday July 20, 2019. Visitation will start at 9 a.m., with a memorial service to follow at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Bob’s favorite charity, Samaritan’s Purse, or to a charity of your choice, and please be sure to register to vote.

Credit: Somerset Daily American; July 15, 2019