Sam George Treperinas

On November 5, 2024, Heaven welcomed a champion fisherman, hunter, husband, father and grandfather, Sam Treperinas, following a year of decline in health. Sam, born "Seraphim Giorgios Triperinas" in Prodromos, Thebes, Greece on February 20, 1933, to Giorgios and Eleni Triperinas. He survived the ravages of WWII, including the burning of his village by the Nazis; the Greek Civil War and other challenges that no child should have to deal with. In 1951, his luck took a turn for the better when he was blessed to be sponsored by George and Stavroula Meras, to come to Havre, Montana. While not the stereotype of America Sam imagined, it provided him with a job opportunity less than a day after arriving. This began his career with what became the Burlington Northern railroad, where he worked until age 70. Sam returned to his village in 1957 and married his wife of 67 years, Elly Christophorou. Sam moved his family to Seattle, Washington in 1967, where they have resided since. While his free time revolved around his love of the outdoors, he was always providing friends and family helping hands. After retiring, Sam dedicated himself to his beloved St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church. He was a daily fixture, overseeing the church's maintenance and becoming instrumental in the annual Greek Festival. In 2003, he was honored as St. Demetrios' "Citizen of the Year" for his service and devotion to the community.

Sam is survived by his wife Elly, sons George (Thelma), Steve (Cindy), Luka (Angela) and his grandchildren Sam G. (Megan), Pete (Colette), Sam L. and Maria; as well as his brother Jim, sister Ianoula Lymberis and numerous nieces and nephews.

The Funeral will be held on Wednesday, November 13, at 11:00 am at Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, 2100 Boyer Ave E, Seattle, WA 98112.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church or Boyer Children's Clinic.