Samuel Herman Clark

Sam Clark, 71, of Bartonville, Illinois, passed away on April 24, 2026. He was born on August 23, 1954, and spent his life in the community he called home. Sam was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose warmth, loyalty, and love of life left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Samuel Herman Clark grew up in Bartonville, Illinois, where he remained rooted throughout his life. Known to family and friends simply as Sam (The Brains), he built a life centered around the people he loved and the things that brought him joy — a day on the water, a day in the woods, a Cubs or Bears game, the laughter of his grandkids and great-granddaughters, and the joy of his famous fish frys shared with those he loved most. To his family, he was simply Papa — a name that said everything.

Sam who was a devoted Union 974 member, dedicated 37 years of his working life to Caterpillar Inc., a career that reflected his strong work ethic, dependability, and pride in a job well done. His commitment to his craft and his colleagues made him a respected figure throughout his time there, and he retired with the deep satisfaction of a life’s work well spent.

Sam was a man of simple pleasures and great passions. He was an unwavering fan of the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears — a loyalty that required patience, humor, and an unshakable faith. He loved fishing, hunting, a backyard barbecue where family and friends gathered around good food and even better company, and had a special place in his heart for his daughter Jamie’s dog, Bella, and Sammy's dog Riggs. Above all, Sam loved his family fiercely and found his greatest joy in the moments spent with those closest to him.

Samuel is survived by: His wife, Patricia Clark, of Bartonville, Illinois, Daughter: Jamie Engstrom Son: Sam Clark (wife Tracy) Grandchildren: Jaden Clark (fiancé Cayden Hess), Camden Clark, and Sawyer, Great-grandchildren: Emersyn and Everleigh.

Samuel was preceded in death by Kathy Clark, the beloved mother of Jamie and Sammy: his mother and father James and Shirley Clark, two brothers Jimmy Paul, and Tim Clark, as well as Patti's children Dane and Keli Foster.

Visitation will be held at Davison Fulton Bartonville chapel from 3 to 6 pm on April 30th with services to follow. A Celebration of Life will be held May 1st from 5pm to 8pm at Rabers Packing company in West Peoria.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Samuel’s memory to Easter Seals Central Illinois or the Illinois CancerCare. Both causes were meaningful to those who loved him.