Eugene “Gene” Sam Sr. (76) passed away Thursday December 27, 2018 in Spokane, Washington. Gene was born Friday, August 14, 1942 to Harry M. & Christine James-Sam in their home near Buffalo Lake, just outside of Nespelem, Washington. A Roman Catholic and proud member of the Colville Confederated Tribes, Gene worked as a logger both independently and for Colville Tribal Logging. On Saturday, August 17, 1963 - just three days after his 21st birthday - Gene married Kathleen Lezard at St. Mary’s Mission in Omak, Washington. Gene enjoyed hunting and “Going Home” to Buffalo Lake where he would fish, kayak, canoe and most importantly – spend time with family gathering together at the home place.
Predeceased by both of his parents; siblings: Alex Sam, Isabel Cleparty, Adeline Fredin, Raymond Sam, Jerome Sam, Rusty Sam, Sylvester Sam and Gabe & Joseph Sam who both died in infancy; Gene’s legacy lives on through his beloved wife of 55 years: Kathleen Sam; children: Eugene Sam Jr, Loren Sam and Jolene Sam; god-daughters: Christine Fredin, Kelli George and Stephanie McCraigie also god-son: Marcus McCraige ; sister: Angie Timentwa and numerous nephews and nieces.
Gene’s dressing was held 10:00am on Saturday, December 29, 2018 at the Strate Funeral Home of Grand Coulee, WA. Services took place at the Nespelem Community Center as follows: Family Rosary - 7:00pm, Saturday, December 29, 2018, Community Rosary – 7:00pm, Sunday, December 30, 2018 and Funeral – 10:00am, Monday, December 31, 2018, followed with graveside services in the Nespelem Catholic Cemetery.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.stratefuneralhome.com for his family. STRATE FUNERAL HOME of Grand Coulee, Washington is serving Eugene’s family.
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