Samuel Howard Kamler

Born on September 13, 1944, in Los Angeles, California, Sam was the son of Howard Herman Kamler and Dorothy Elizabeth Kronberger. He dedicated his life to learning, service, faith, and family.

Sam proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, completing six years of service and honorably discharging at the rank of Sergeant (E-4) after serving in Vietnam. His sense of duty and integrity carried through every stage of his life.

He pursued higher education with passion and discipline, earning a Bachelor of Science in Biology from California State University, Dominguez Hills, a Master of Arts in Asian Studies from San Diego State University, and a Master of Education from Cambridge College. Sam spent more than 30 years in education, working as a dedicated math and science teacher, and retired from Valinda School of Academics in La Puente, California, where he left a lasting impression on students and colleagues alike.

Beyond his professional life, Sam embraced his many interests with enthusiasm. He enjoyed photography, computer tinkering, serving faithfully at Grace Lutheran Church in Covina, Faith Lutheran Church in San Dimas and as a Gideon, as well as volunteering as a tour guide for students at the Los Angeles County Fair. He loved traveling with his wife and friends, wine tasting, visiting arboretums, eating dim sum, handling reptiles, reading mystery novels, watching British television, and—most importantly—spending time with his grandchildren.

Sam was known for his sharp wit and legendary sense of humor, delighting in harmless pranks and laughter. He was incredibly kind, generous, and fair, treating everyone equally while expecting honesty and effort in return. Stern when needed but always loving, Sam believed in leading by example. He was a faithful servant of Jesus Christ, living his beliefs through authenticity, service, and compassion.

He didn’t tolerate nonsense or pretense—no frills, no pageantry—only truth, love, service, kindness, and acceptance. He gave what he received and stood firmly on principle. Sam was the kind of man the world needs more of, devoted to family, grounded in faith, unabashed kindness and unwavering in integrity. To have him in your life was a blessing beyond compare.

Sam is now reunited with his amazing, beloved wife Suzanne Kamler, and with his loving parents Dorothy and Howard Kamler.

He is survived by his son Sammy Kamler and Sammy’s wife Lisa; his cherished grandchildren Dylan, Dean, Bradley Schick, and Bristol Schick; his daughter in law Licia Miller, mother to Dylan and Dean; his sisters Barbara Kamler, Deborah Nunnally, and Susy Decker; his brothers Mark Decker, Dale Nunnally and Mike Decker; and his nieces and nephews Josh Decker, Kim Carson, Louis Lopez, Justin Nunnally, and Jessica Nunnally.

Samuel will be laid to rest with full military honors at Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside, California, on April 23, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. The funeral is open to all who wish to attend. The family asks for nothing beyond remembrance and respect. May God give us all grace to accept that Sam is home and finally at rest. Thank you for the love and respect that you have promised for Him and may He be with us all.