Samuel F. Brown
December 22, 1928 to December 3, 2014
Our very special beloved husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather and great grandfather passed away peacefully in loving arms on December 3. He was surrounded by family and friends in the days leading up to his passing, and even got to hold his brand new great granddaughter Juno in his arms.
Sam was born in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan and possessed the warm and honest values so many people from the prairies seem to have. His mother Eva and his father Charles had two other children – Dorothy and Charlie ( predeceased ). The family lived through the depression and like many others, knew the importance of family values and good neighbors.
Sam entered Margaret’s life dramatically when he leapt off the high board at the Sherbrook swimming pool in Winnipeg, and nearly landed on her while doing a cannonball. They married in June 1957 and enjoyed a lifelong partnership of deep love, marriage and commitment to one another. They were also best friends. Hand in hand, they walked through life together as their warmth and love extended to family and to friends. The strength of their relationship as a couple and as parents will serve generations of our family into the future.
Sam was a lifelong member of the Sunnydale Golf Club. He had many great friends there that he enjoyed very much. Rumour has it he even made the odd good shot now and then.
Sam is survived by his loving wife Margaret, sons Charlie (Donna) and Garry (Sherri), grandsons Matthew (Courtnie), Michael (Samantha), Sam and Adam, great grandchildren Jacob, Hunter, Sage and Juno – all of whom learned many things from Sam’s dedication and influence. Sam’s niece Arlene (Dave) and their children Kirsten, Jeff and Ashley live in Regina. Sam was also very close to his mother and father in law Eva and Daniel Porter. His brother in law Steve Lewis (Lynn) and nephews Rob and Cam live in Courtenay. Brother in law Herb and nephews David and Ilo live in Winnipeg. Sam was predeceased by his sister in laws Iris and Ilo.
Sam enjoyed an impressive career with the Military. His career included a tour in Europe and culminated in the Comox Valley.
His duties ranged from Air Frame Technician in the early years to Base General Safety Officer at CFB Comox. Sam took this role seriously and earned the respect and highest regard from his peers. Sam also enjoyed being a drummer in the military marching bands which brought immense pride to his family; in particular, his young sons at the time.
In his personal life, Sam’s talents seemed endless for he had a diverse array of intellect and skills to draw upon. This included a legendary sense of logic, mechanical and structural vision, gifted hands and creativity. Better still, Sam put these gifts to good use to enrich the environment and activities of his family and those around him.
Sam also believed in community, and enjoyed being a member of the Courtenay Rotary Club for over 25 years.
Sam will also be remembered by his good nature, sense of humour, and empathy. He was a constant joy to all who spent time with him. Sam loved life, and those who also loved life, couldn’t help but to love him.
As Sam’s health began to slide over the last few years, Marg faced her role as caregiver with strength and courage which seemed to have no end.
The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to Dr. Reggler, Dr. Blacklock and their staff for their dedication in looking after Sam’s health.
We also wish to express our deepest thanks to: VIHA, Steve at Island Health, Greg and staff at Living Room Pharmacy, the paramedics of the BC Ambulance Service, the staff of the St Joes Hospital from the Emerg to the 3rd floor and everywhere in between! Lastly, deepest gratitude to the family’s many friends for their loving support.
At Sam’s request, there will be no service at this time but a celebration of life is planned for the spring. Flowers are graciously declined. Donations may be made to Comox Valley Hospice Society.
Sam touched so many people, and it is on behalf of all that we are so grateful for the gift of this incredible man.
And thank you Sam Brown….
You are the best!