Hal Bast

Born on August 4, 1947, in Springfield, IL, Hal lived a life full of hard work, laughter, and unwavering devotion to his family. He married the love of his life, Jan (Smith) Bast on December 21, 1968, and together they built a beautiful life centered on family and love.

Hal was known for his handiwork, creativity, and wealth of knowledge. Throughout his early years, he was a welder at Allis Chalmers and a butcher at Castor’s Grocery, Certified tanks. He spent his career at Chicago and Illinois Midland Railroad where he was employed as the Chief Mechanical Officer after his service in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War, TET Offensive. Throughout his life, Hal was involved in the Masonic Lodge, Ansar Shrine Clown Unit, and well-known for his car repair and upholstery work. He was a man of many talents, and his interests were varied and all self-taught. Each morning, Hal enjoyed coffee with “The Boys” at McDonald’s and solving world problems. He was happiest at home drinking Pepsi with his family, working in his shop, or drift fishing in his boat on Lake Springfield.

Above all, Hal was happiest surrounded by those he loved: his wife, Jan Bast (Smith); children, Jerod Bast (Fort Wayne, IN) and Jennifer (Brian) Durbin (Mason City, IL); and seven grandchildren, Jacob, Elisabeth, Quin, Kayla, Will, Maddy, and Hannah. They were all the pride of his life. He leaves behind countless memories of laughter, lessons, and love that will live on in their hearts forever.

Hal is preceded in death by his parents, William and Mildred Bast; and brother, James Bast.

The family will host a graveside service at Camp Butler National Cemetery on November 7, 2025, at 2:00pm. Military honors will be provided by IVBDSC and DOD, as well as a masonic funeral from members of Tyrian Lodge #333.

A celebration of Hal’s life will be at Poe’s on the Hill following the graveside service, where friends and family are invited to come socialize and share memories.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made to Shriner’s Children’s Hospital or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home- Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield.