Douglas E Sassaman's Obituary
Nothing brought Doug Sassaman more joy than a bustling house filled with family, the smell of supper, and the Bucs on the screen. On February 27th, 2026, at Largo Medical Center, our cherished Doug passed away at 76. His absence leaves a quiet space we keep filling with stories.
Doug was born on October 5th, 1949, in St Petersburg, Florida, to Miriam D. Sassaman and Verne A. Sassaman. He graduated from St Petersburg High School in 1967. That milestone set the stage for the hardworking path he walked every day.
Starting in 1970 Doug worked as a Technical Detailer and Estimator, first at Babcock and Wilcox and later at United Steel. His hardworking and responsible nature guided every drawing he touched. Loyal to his craft and his coworkers, he kept at it year after year.
Life with Janet Goins Sassaman was his favorite adventure. Together they logged miles in their camper, trading the familiar for new roads whenever they could. Back home, Doug cooked for family dinners, happy to see everyone gathered around the table.
Sunday church and weekday suppers made up the rhythm we knew best. Doug held tight to his motto, “God, Country and Family,” and he lived it in quiet, steady ways. Kind and supportive, he always found time when one of us needed a hand.
When the Buccaneers took the field, Doug’s cheers filled the room. Watching the game on television was a familiar sight for all of us. Even a rough season never dimmed his loyal spirit.
Doug is survived by his wife Janet and his brother James F. Sassaman. He now joins his parents Miriam and Verne, his brother Kenneth L. Sassaman, and his sister Ruth Ann Sassaman, who all passed before him.
We invite family and friends to honor Doug by supporting cancer organizations in lieu of flowers. Until we meet again, we will keep gathering for family meals, saying “Go Bucs!” and holding tight to the family he treasured.
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