Sam Boese, Sr., 92, died August 19, 2011 at Western Plains Medical Complex in Dodge City. He was born on February 13, 1919 in Burns, the son of Tobias and Carrie (Buller) Boese.

Sam was raised in Burns where he attended school. In 1953, he moved to Dodge City. Sam married Evelyn V. Church. She preceded him in death on January 23, 1968. He then married Barbara K. Kelsey in 1974. She preceded him in death on October 5, 2007. Mr. Boese was a World War II veteran of the United States Army. He first served in the Second Calvary Unit at Fort Riley. Then in 1944, the unit was converted to the Ninth Armored Tank Division. He fought in the Battle of the Bulge. Sam was captured in Belgium and was a P.O.W. for three months before being liberated by U.S. troops. Mr. Boese was awarded the Purple Heart for his service to his country.

He was a member of the American Legion, Howard Gotschall Post #1714 V.F.W., both of Dodge City, the Disabled Veterans of America, P.O.W., and the Military Order of the Purple Heart. He served as Past Jr. Vice Commander of the V.F.W.

Mr. Boese is survived by one daughter, Kay Stauth and husband Steve of Dodge City; three sons, Sam Boese, Jr. and wife Deborah of Dodge City and John Boese of Dodge City, and Don Nichols of El Dorado; 12 grandchildren; and six great grandchildren.He is also preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Patricia Webb; three sisters, Alma, Esther, and Marie; and five brothers, Jake, Hank, Walt, Art, and John

Funeral service will be held at the Fort Dodge Chapel in Fort Dodge on Wednesday, August 24, 2011 at 11:00 AM with Rev. Vernon Bogart and Dr. Billy Manning presiding. Burial will follow at Kansas Veterans' Cemetery in Fort Dodge with military rites by the Fort Riley Honor Guard. Visitation will be at Swaim Funeral Home on Tuesday, August 23, 2011 from noon to 8:00 PM. Memorials are suggested to the Disabled Veterans of America in care of the funeral home. Thoughts and memories may be shared in the online guest book at www.swaimfuneralhome.com.