Donald Bastis

1944 - 2024

Our beloved father, Donald John Bastis (age 80) passed away on March 1, 2024. Don grew up in Broadbrook, CT the grandson of Lithuanian immigrants. He was the first of his family to graduate from college, earning a degree in Economics from the University of Connecticut in 1969. After graduation, Don was hired by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) via Western Union telegram. He started and ended his career as a bank auditor/examiner with the FDIC serving for more than 30 years, a testament to his faithfulness and loyalty. Don met Lynne, his future wife, at UCONN at a mixer hosted by his dorm. Lynne was a nursing student, and he caught her eye right away. They courted for two years and were married on December 12, 1969. He was a passionate UCONN Husky fan throughout his life. He attended men’s basketball games from his college days in the Field House on campus to the Hartford Civic Center/XL Center and Gampel Pavilion. When his daughter Kristen participated in the UCONN marching band he attended football games and then she joined the women’s basketball pep band, he began attending those games too. His attendance continued long after her graduation. Don passed on his knowledge and experience in accounting to his son Brian, who’s passion for and interest in numbers and finances has served him well through his professional career. Don gave both of his children many gifts though-out his life, leading by example on how to treat other people, how to remain calm in challenging situations, and remaining loyal to others in all areas of life, friends, family, and work. He was a patriot, joining the 102nd Connecticut Army National Guard Band, serving 32 years and attaining the rank of First Sergeant. A highlight for him during his service was traveling to Manilla, Philippines for the celebration of the 50th anniversary of WWII and having the chance to see the grave of his uncle Andrew Gerulaitis. Don lived his Catholic faith every day and was blessed with a charitable heart. He regularly and faithfully supported organizations with Christian missions that served those in need and was a blood donor to the American Red Cross giving more than 15 gallons through various blood drives. After retirement from the National Guard and FDIC, Don served his community by volunteering at Notre Dame Church and the Durham Agricultural Fair Association. His wife Elizabeth Evelyn “Lynne” Lanoue Bastis predeceased him, as did his older sister Janet Bastis Johnson. Donald is survived by his children Kristen Jeanne Bastis and Donald “Brian” Bastis, his daughter-in-law Julie Garrison Bastis and three grandchildren Alexis Lynne Bastis, David Garrison Bastis and Elizabeth Grace Bastis; His sister Deborah Congelos Prior, his brother Steven Congelos and his cousin Virginia Remika Tabb. The Funeral Liturgy will be held on Friday March 8th at 9:30 a.m. at Notre Dame Church, Durham. Burial will follow at Mica Hill Cemetery with Military Honors. Visitation will be on Thursday March 7th from 5 to 7 p.m. at Biega Funeral Home, 3 Silver St., Middletown. In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to UCONN or the Alzheimer’s Association, or donate blood to the American Red Cross. To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.