Samuel F. Kitchell

Dear Kitchell Family:
I met Sam at least 15 years ago and was immediately struck by his gentle demeanor and how he cared for the people who worked at his company. Sam always had a kind word for me and his spirit lives on in the culture he developed at Kitchell. My thoughts and prayers are especially with the Kitchell family (which -actually- would include all the employees as well, since it truly is like one big family over there). Whenever I see a Kitchell truck or sign around town, I...

Sam was a first-class tennis partner, and a tough competitor----but at his best when he was extracting funds from my wallet for the Heard, or when he and Betty would give Pat & me a bridge lesson---one of the finest men I have ever known--and I miss him

I have fond memories of Sam while visiting Suki and Fred on Lopez Island, and can't believe 25 years have flown by. I think of Sam and Betty as an inspiration on marriage and hard work.

My warmest regards to Suki, Fred, Betty and the Kitchell family.

As a child I attended Pima Elementary school with Jon. I had the pleasure of meeting the family.
Our homes were within blocks of each other and the Kitchell home was always friendly and open.
The Kitchell family has been blessed with a love and caring environment that is very rare in today's society. Blessings are always given to those whom don't just think of themselves.I am sorry for your loss.

I came to the Heard Museum as director in 1990, knowing almost no one in the Valley. My family and I were immediately and warmly welcomed by Sam and Betty Kitchell, who took us into the fold of their family. Over the years I witnessed countless examples of the depth of Sam's integrity, wisdom, kindness, and commitment to bettering the Phoenix community. He was an extraordinary mentor and friend who will be remembered with lasting affection.

Dear Kitchell Family---I consider myself very lucky to have had the opportunity to meet Sam and spend a Thanksgiving with him at Greg and Ann's house. He is a most irreplaceable man and I know you will all miss him terribly. My thoughts are with you.

I have only been with Kitchell for just 5 years, and was fortunate to have met Sam at the first Christmas Party I had attended. I was very impressed with him at that time. My prayers are with you and your family.

My heart go out to the Kitchell family for the lose of Sam. First time I met him I called him Mr. Kitchell. He smiled and said "Its Sam". Never forgot that.
I thank him for all he has done during my 18 year stay with Kitchell. It is a Family like Sam wanted it to be.

I did not have the privilege or pleasure of knowing Sam personally, but have been fortunate to know and work with friends of the Kitchell family (including Kay Ellis and Bill Schubert) and help Sam's vision/company continue to grow for more than a decade.
As you already know, Sam's ingenious and generous imprint will forever be left on the valley and lives of so many for generations to come.
My deepest sympathies and prayers are with you and your loved ones during this difficult...