Samuel Milton Spece, 78, passed away July 11, 2026, at Azria Health Woodhaven, Great Bend, after a lengthy battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Sam was born May 30, 1948, in Great Bend, to Milton E. and M. Arlene (Scheufler) Spece.

Sam was baptized, confirmed, and a lifelong and supporting member of Trinity Lutheran Church. He faithfully served his church in many roles, including cantoring, volunteering on committees, and serving in the Sunday School department. His faith was strong and he is now asleep in Jesus.

Sam was an entrepreneur, businessman, and owner of Shooters Supply for decades. Many hunting enthusiasts and gun collectors were his acquaintances, customers and friends. Sam loved NASCAR, horse racing, his dogs, farming, day trips, Royals baseball, and watching “The Price in Right” and “Leave it to Beaver” reruns. Sam served his country loyally in the Army Reserves.

Sam is survived by his brother William L. ‘Bill’ Spece of Great Bend, and cousins, Vickie McCulley, Shelly Johnson and Rick Scheufler. He was preceded in passing by his parents and an infant brother, Edwin Peter Spece.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, July 20, 2026, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Great Bend. A private family interment will take place later at St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery, rural Albert, Kan. Memorials are suggested to Trinity Lutheran Church, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd, Great Bend, Ks 67530. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Bryant Funeral Home

1425 Patton Rd.

Great Bend, KS 67530

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune July 14, 2026