Sam was born on January 12, 1948. He was raised in Fresno county (Biola and Kerman). He worked at BFI as a garbage truck driver for over 35 years. Sam was most proud to be called "Pop" by his beloved grandchildren Alani B and Cohen J and was also very grateful to be the dad of Brian and Jess thanks to his wife Donna of 26 years. His other passion was coaching baseball for over 25 years where he impacted many young lives at Lions little league, Central Cal Ripken, Central babe Ruth, Central youth softball and DIB Baseball Academy. At the DIB Baseball Academy he was well known for his motto "You Can't Hurt Steel.”
Sam loved to bbq and it was well known that his tri-tip was the absolute best.
He was also a proud Central High School alumnus and Vietnam veteran.
He passed away on May 29, 2020.
Sam was preceded in death by his parents Oscar and Opal Stidham, his brothers; Floyd Stidham and Bill Stidham and his sister Kathy Kennedy.
Sam is survived by his wife, Donna; son Brian Oliver and his fiance Stephanie Schmitz; and daughter Jess and son-in-law Niko grandchildren Alani and Cohen Feagaimaalii; Uncle John Stidham; brother Gene Stidham (Beth), sister Eva Gerjets, sister Sharon Fraley (Doug), sister Debbie Stone, brother Ivan Stidham, sister-in-law Barbara Stidham, sister-in-law Jeri Stidham.
A celebration for Sam will be held Saturday, 3 pm June 13, 2020 at Sam and Donna’s home.
