Sam Washington Meineke

Sam W. Meineke, a visionary businessman, devoted family man, and world traveler, passed away peacefully on December 4, 2024 at the age of 93. Born on March 19, 1931, in Idabel, Oklahoma, to Lillie and Henry Meineke, Sam grew up with humble beginnings that shaped his indomitable spirit and drive to achieve greatness.

The son of sharecroppers, Sam spent his early years working tirelessly on his family’s cotton fields. Despite their limited means, Sam’s upbringing instilled in him a strong work ethic and an unwavering determination to dream big. These formative years laid the foundation for the remarkable life he would go on to lead.

During World War II, the Meineke family relocated to Pasadena, Texas, where Sam’s ambition quickly took root. As a young man, he juggled multiple jobs, including mowing lawns, delivering telegrams, working on construction crews, and ushering at the El Capitan Theatre. It was during this time that Sam found his calling while working for a local businessman who mentored him in the art of running and managing a business. By the age of 21, Sam had saved enough money to purchase his own service station—a venture that marked the beginning of his successful career.

In the years that followed, Sam partnered with his high school friend, Ed Bass, to launch Bass & Meineke, an auto parts business that grew from a single shop to an impressive 12 locations. Though their business partnership eventually ended, their lifelong friendship endured.

In 1970, Sam ventured into a new chapter, selling his share of Bass & Meineke and founding Meineke Discount Mufflers in 1971. A year later, he began franchising his business, transforming Meineke into an internationally recognized brand. By the time he retired in 1982, Sam had solidified his legacy as a pioneer in the automotive service industry.

Retirement brought Sam the greatest joys of his life. In 1983, he married the love of his life, Sadye Meineke, and together they built a life filled with adventure, love, and laughter. The couple traveled the world with friends and family, exploring new horizons while cherishing the simple pleasures of life.

Sam’s happiest moments often found him on the open road, riding one of his beloved motorcycles with a cheap cigar between his lips and Sadye, his “good-lookin’ lady,” holding on tightly behind him.

A man of great warmth and generosity, Sam was deeply loved and respected by all who knew him. He leaves behind a loving family, including his beloved wife, Sadye Meineke; his daughters Cheri Johnson (Greg) and Debbie Zonana (Kevin); his stepchildren Brian Barron (Tamara), Jerre Barron Jr. (Peggy) and Sherrye Bourgeois (Daniel); and his grandchildren Ryan and Samantha Zonana, Justin and Brandi Barron, Jerred and Kerre Barron, Lacey Derrington, and Jeremy Faggard.

Sam was preceded in death by his parents, Lillie and Henry Meineke; his siblings, Radford Meineke, Marie Johnson, and Mildred Radcliff; and his daughter, Peggy Meineke.

Sam’s life was a testament to the power of hard work, resilience, and an unrelenting pursuit of one’s dreams. He will be remembered as a loving husband, a doting father, an adoring grandfather, and a loyal friend, as well as an inspiration to all who were fortunate enough to know him.