Sammy Ray Mai, age 68, passed away January 11, 2016. He was born July 25, 1947, in Hays, to Emil and Patty (DeJarnette) Mai of WaKeeney.

He was baptized and confirmed at Bethlehem Lutheran Church of WaKeeney. Sammy was a resident of WaKeeney at the time of his passing, moving there to be caregiver for his mother and was very dedicated to giving her wellbeing. He was formerly from Denver, Colorado, and lived a brief time in Tucson, Arizona. Sammy was a graduate of Trego Community High School and attended Fort Hays State University.

Sammy's first career was in Denver, where he was a club owner and a band booking agent for many years, and was deeply involved in the music industry. He loved the music and people he met and worked with. Sammy later went into car sales, which he enjoyed. In his younger days, Sammy had a passion for cars and owned 60's era muscle cars. He was known for his kind heart and free spirit. He was a motorcycle enthusiast, who loved riding his Harley, and being involved in charity events and rides. He met many people through his life, and created lifelong friendships.

Sammy was preceded in death by his father, Emil "Sam" Mai; his grandparents, William and Amelia Mai, and Frank and Blanche DeJarnette.

Survivors include his mother, Patty Mai of WaKeeney; two sons, Bryce of Littleton, Colorado, and Darin of Oak Ridge, North Carolina; and six grandchildren.

Sammy will be loved and missed by his friends and family.

Memorial service will be 2:00 p.m., Saturday, April 16, 2016 at the funeral home in WaKeeney. Inurnment will be in the WaKeeney City Cemetery.

There will be no visitation as cremation was chosen.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital, Long Term Care (TCLMH-LTC). Donations made to the organization may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 North 12th, WaKeeney, KS 67672.

Condolences may be left by signing the guest book on this page. Please note - condolences are screened before publishing, so you won't see it appear instantly.