Joseph H. Blass, Jr. (94) of Havertown, PA, formerly of Philadelphia, PA, passed away on May 13, 2015. Born in South Philadelphia on February 1, 1921, he was the son of the late Joseph H. Blass, Sr. and Marian Blass (nee Brendlinger).

Joseph served his country in the United States Navy during World War II and fought in the South Pacific. He also served as an Officer in the Coast Guard Auxiliary. He was employed as a tool maker with General Electric in Southwest Philadelphia.

On January 1, 2011, the City Council of the City of Philadelphia honored him with a Citation on the great occasion of his 60th Anniversary marching with the Ferko String Band. This honor was for his outstanding contributions to the great Philadelphia tradition of Mummery, one that enhances the image and uniqueness of Philadelphia, its citizens and its visitors.

He first marched in the Mummers Parade in 1939 with the Woodland String Band playing banjo, but then changed over to the saxophone.

In 1947, Joe and his friends started their own string band, Delaware County String Band, and he served as Captain for 4 years.

In 1951, Joe joined the Ferko String Band as a lively young saxophone player, full of life, who enjoyed one of Philadelphia's most cherished traditions. Joe was elected Captain of the Ferko String Band in 1968 and won Captain prizes in 1972, 1974 and 1975. His tenure as Captain lasted for eleven prosperous years.

Joe was predeceased by the love of his life, his wife, Anne Blass. He is survived by his three sons Joseph H. Blass, III (Dyan Nelson Blass), Paul Blass (Christine) and Richard Blass (Diane), his eight grandchildren Kevin, Paul, Kristi, Michelle, Allison, Elizabeth, Derek and Kim and his five great-grandchildren Therin, Ryan, Ellie, Itzel and Dillon.

Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing Monday, May 18, 2015 8:30-10:00 AM The Donohue Funeral Home, 8401 West Chester Pike (cor. Lynn Blvd.), Upper Darby, PA (610) 449-0300 and to his Funeral Mass 10:30 AM Annunciation BVM Church, 401 Brookline Road, Havertown, PA.
Interment West Laurel Hill Cemetery, Bala Cynwyd, PA.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Joe's memory to the Mummers Museum, 1100 S. 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147 or to Annunciation BVM Church Sanctuary Guild at the above address would be appreciated.