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

He was born on August 4, 1931, in Sandown, NH, son of the late Raymond and Priscilla (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 The University of New Hampshire Thompson School of Applied Science in May 1951. He worked at Johnsons 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 5 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 1960’s, 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 (Saturley) Bassett; and 12 of his 15 siblings.

He is survived by his children, Philip Bassett (Susan) of Daniels, WV, Randolph (Jo-Ellen) of Laconia, NH, Jane (David) of Dallas, TX, and Rebecca (William) of Weare, NH; 19 grandchildren; 40 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great grandchildren; siblings, Donald Bassett of Epsom, NH, David Bassett of Penobscot, ME, and Caroll Bassett of Sandown, NH; and more than 60 nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at the New Rye Cemetery in Epsom on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at 11:00am, with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your favorite charity in honor of Wendell’s memory. Assisting the family with arrangements is the Roan Family Funeral Home of Pembroke. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.roanfamilyfuneral.com.