Samuel Jansen

Sam is survived by his wife, Patricia Jansen; his son, Robert Jansen; his daughter, Carrie Forty; two grandchildren, Sam and Carter Forty; and his beloved Chihuahua-terrier mix, Emma.

Sam was born on September 1st, 1942, in the Bay Area of California to June Rose Jansen and Samuel Hermann Jansen. After high school, Sam served proudly with the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War, in the engine rooms of both the U.S.S. Boyd destroyer and the U.S.S. Constitution aircraft carrier. After meeting his wife Pat in Eureka, CA, they married in 1971 and later had two children, Robert then Carrie. Sam worked for Humboldt State University as an electrician before moving his family to Visalia, CA, to be near Pat’s mother. He worked the next 28 years for the California Pretzel Company, as Maintenance Supervisor.

Spending time with family was extremely important to Sam. He and his family spent many summers at YMCA Camp Tulequoia, where he volunteered his time and skills building and repairing many facilities. He supported his family’s love for theatre by helping to build theatre sets and attending all of their performances. He was Carrie’s number one cheerleader when it came to gymnastics, dance, and track & field, always beaming with pride. He never missed the opportunity to show how much he loved his family and how proud he was of Robert and Carrie. As well during his life, he had many pets and he loved them all. He was particularly fond of his dogs, Tootie and Emma.

Sam was a wonderful, intelligent, selfless, talented, patient, and joyful human being. He will be missed and memories of him will be cherished.

A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, September 24th at 11am at Miller Memorial Chapel, located at 1120 West Goshen Ave, Visalia. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Sam’s life.

In lieu of flowers, please send any donations to Kaweah Delta Hospice Foundation at 216 S. Johnson St. Visalia, CA 93291