Roger W. "Sam" Bass, 79, of Douglass, Kansas, passed away early Thursday morning, March 7, 2019 at his home.

Born June 21, 1939 in Mangum, Oklahoma, he was the son of Otis Earl and Nannie (Westbrook) Bass. He was raised and received his early education in Mangum, before moving with his family at age 15 to Hagerman, New Mexico. In 1957, he joined the United States Navy and proudly served his country in the Vietnam War. In his 20 year career in the Navy, he served in both the South Pacific and Antarctica.

He was united in marriage to Sandra Groom on July 9, 1976 in Tamuning, Guam. Sam retired from the Navy and was honorably discharged on November 1, 1976. The couple then moved to Healdton, Oklahoma where Sam worked as a mechanic for Armstrong Tool in the oil fields. He later worked as a mechanic for two dealerships in Oklahoma before moving to Wichita, Kansas in 1987. He began working for 7Up as a Fleet Mechanic. In 1989, he and Sandra made their home in Douglass. Sam continued working for 7Up until the Wichita plant closed, when he went to work for the Chevrolet dealership in Mulvane. He later worked at State Street Auto in Augusta and remained there until his retirement in July of 2006.

He was a life long member of the American Legion. He enjoyed bowling and leather work.

His family includes his wife Sandra of Douglass; his sons, Fred L. Wimberly and wife, Sonya of Anton, TX; Jason D. Bass of Douglass; Casey Bass of Oklahoma City, Ok; his daughters, Vera Mathews; Danielle Weishaar of Douglass; his mother-in-law Verle E. Groom of Douglass; his brother Nolan Bass and wife, Betty of Yuba City, CA; and his nine grandchildren and one great grandchild.

In addition to his parents, Sam was preceded in death by a brother, Donald Bass and a sister-in-law Peggy Bass.

Graveside services with Military Committal Honors will be held Tuesday, March 12, 2019 at 10:00 A.M. at Wilmot Cemetery. A visitation is scheduled at Miles Funeral Service on Sunday afternoon, March 10, 2019 from 2 to 6. The family will greet visitors during this time.

A memorial has been established in Sam's name for Victory In The Valley. Contributions may be made through the funeral home.