Samuel Loo Tam

Samuel Loo Tam passed away peacefully surrounded by family on August 28, 2026, in Wichita, Kansas. He was born on March 7, 1938, in Remedios, Panama, and was the son of Lorenzo Loo and Tam Sii de Loo. He was the second of 7 children.

Samuel moved to the United States after high school and earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering with a focus in Aeronautics from Oklahoma State University in 1965. He worked at North American Rockwell before transitioning to Beech Aircraft Corporation (subsequently Raytheon Aircraft Company) in 1968, where he contributed his expertise for almost 40 years prior to his retirement. It was also in Wichita that he met and then married the love of his life, Lydia Chi Loo, in 1978. He remained active in retirement, always treasuring time spent with family and often finding joy in serving as the unofficial photographer for casual gatherings, formal occasions, and everything in between.

He was preceded in death by his parents and 5 of his siblings. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Lydia; his children: Peter Loo (Melodie), Colleen Loo-Gross (Derick); and his 6 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sibling and siblings-in-law: Luzmila Lum (Rolando), Carlos Chen, Rita Loo, Gladys Sanson de Loo; and many nieces and nephews.

Samuel will be remembered for his kind demeanor, dedication to his family, and as the embodiment of a good and honorable man. He left a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Friends and family are invited to a Celebration of Life mass which will take place at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church on September 12, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., with interment to follow at Lakeview Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution to a charity of the donor’s choosing.