Richard Hanford SAMS

SAMS, Richard Hanford 98 Years of Life A former longtime resident of Mica, Washington, passed away on Wednesday, November 12, 2014. Mr. Sams is the dear father of Dean Sams of Valley, Washington, and David Sams of Suncrest, Washington. He enjoyed six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. There are many nieces and nephews. Born in 1916 at Amidon, Slope County, North Dakota, upon completing grade school, Richard joined the United States Navy, became a Watertender First Class, and served aboard the U.S.S. Colorado (BB-45), the U.S.S. Roosevelt (CVB-42), and the U.S.S. Portsmouth (CL-102). He saw combat action during World War II in the Asiatic Pacific Campaign and in the liberation of the Philippines. After his naval service, Mr. Sams became a carpenter and cabinet maker and was a longtime employee with the Kop's Cabinet Shop in Spokane. He attended the Valley Church of the Open Bible and the Assemblies of God Churches in Hillyard and Loon Lake, and was a member of the U.S.S. Colorado Alumni Association. Funeral Services honoring Mr. Sams will be at 11:00 A.M., Friday, November 21, 2014, in Elk at the County Church of the Open Bible with Pastor Bill Clemmons officiating, followed with interment in Elk Cemetery #1. Military Honors and flag presentation will be by the United States Navy. A potluck reception will be at the church. LAUER FUNERAL HOME of Deer Park, Washington