KANSAS CITY, KS — Paul Michael Bastasch, a third-generation member of the baking industry, passed away on Jan. 17. He was 82 years old.
The Air Force Reserve veteran joined United Bakery Equipment Co. (UBE) in 1970 — founded by his father, Frank, in 1966 — and managed a factory in Lenexa, KS. He served at the company for more than four decades, retiring in 2013.
Bastasch was known for his generosity, having supported many charitable and educational organizations. His loved ones described him as unconventional, energetic, creative and genuinely interested in connecting with people. He devoted his free time to breeding, training, riding and showing Morgan horses.
He is preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and two sisters. Bastasch is survived by his wife, Kathy; their children, Elizabeth, Michael and Steve; grandson, Josh; great-grandchildren, Aria and Addison; his brother, Tom (Beth); and brother-in-law, Mike Driscoll (Lee).
A memorial Mass will be held Feb. 1 at the Church of the Holy Cross in Overland Park, KS. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas in his memory.
