Wendell P. Bassett Sr., 95

WEARE — Wendell Philip Bassett Sr., 95, of Weare, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Aug. 22, 2026.

He was born on Aug. 4, 1931, in Sandown, son of the late Raymond and Priscilla (née Knights) Bassett. Wendell was very active in his home church in Epsom — now Epsom Bible Church, where he served faithfully for many years, including transporting those that were unable to transport themselves. He then attended Weare Christian Church for the last 13 years.

He was a great example of how to support a family by attending many sporting events for his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as visiting them in far-flung places like Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, California, West Virginia, Hawaii, Indonesia, China, and the Philippines.

Like most of the Bassetts, he had a large productive garden most years. Wendell graduated from the University of New Hampshire Thompson School of Applied Science in May 1951. He worked at Johnson's Dairy in Northwood, Cutters Farm in Epsom, Weeks Dairy in Gilford, and then Huckins Oil in Epsom, for 30 years until it was sold. Wendell started out delivering oil — sometimes taking his kids to push the button to reel in the hose while he walked through the snow to connect the hose to the tank. He later became an oil burner technician for the rest of his time with Huckins. He then worked for five years for John Dodge Oil, and in retirement did volunteer work for Christian camps, churches, civic programs and people who needed a handyman.

For several years in the 1960s, Wendell and Barbara spent many Friday and Saturday evenings square dancing. They were quite the couple.

In addition to his parents, Wendell was predeceased by his beloved wife of 70 years, Barbara Katherine (née Saturley) Bassett, and 12 of his 15 siblings.

He is survived by his children, Philip Bassett (Susan) of Daniels, West Virginia, Randolph (Jo-Ellen) of Laconia, Jane (David) of Dallas, Texas, and Rebecca (William) of Weare; 19 grandchildren; 40 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; siblings Donald Bassett of Epsom, David Bassett of Penobscot, Maine, and Carroll Bassett of Sandown; and more than 60 nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at the New Rye Cemetery in Epsom, at 11 a.m., on Saturday, Sept. 5, with a reception to follow at Epsom Bible Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your favorite charity in Wendell’s memory.

Assisting the family with arrangements is the Roan Family Funeral Home of Pembroke. To share a memory or offer a condolence, visit roanfamilyfuneral.com.