O.D. “Sam” Brubaker

O.D. “Sam” Brubaker, 97, Lawrence, passed away Tuesday, April 21, 2020 at Bridge Haven in Lawrence.

Sam was born on October 2, 1922 in Pomona, KS, the son of Virgil and Rosa (McFadden) Brubaker.

After graduating high school in 1941, Sam joined the Army during WWII on November 27, 1942. He served overseas in the European theatre of Operations with Company D, 45 ^th Tank Battalion, 13 Armored Division. Sam was Tank commander and was responsible for control, coordination and tactical employment of the tank and crew members. He served in Germany until he was discharged as Sergeant on February 13, 1946.

Upon returning to the States, he married Ruth (Murphy) Brubaker and then joined the Lawrence Fire Department in 1947. During nearly 3 decades, some of the more memorable fires Sam was actively involved in included the Sterling Furniture Company store fire in 1954…the Patee Theater Fire in 1955…the TNT Popcorn plant in 1967…the huge WREN/Miller Furniture Store fire in 1966…and Kansas University Union fire in 1970. Sam retired as Captain in 1973.

Upon retirement from the fire department, Sam was known for staying busy and, as a carpenter, he assisted numerous home builders in Lawrence.

Sam always enjoyed traveling. He and his wife took many bus travel tours throughout the US over the years which made for many happy memories. He has also enjoyed pheasant hunting, playing bingo, attending the Brubaker family reunions and volunteering in numerous church projects.

Sam was a member of the Lawrence VFW Post 852 and the American Legion Post 14 for many years.

Survivors include numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Lyle Brubaker, Clarke Brubaker, half-brother, Roy Evans; and seven sisters, Gladys, Doris, Ila, Alta, Vesta, Eulla, and Wilma.

Due the current Coronavirus Pandemic, there will be a private family only Graveside Service.

The family suggests memorials in his name to the Lawrence Humane Society, American Legion Post 14, or The Alzheimer’s Association and may be sent in care of the Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13 ^th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.