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Jon Howard Sams

Jon Howard Sams obituary

Jon Sams Obituary

Sams, Jon Howard
Jon Sams, 65, of Phoenix, AZ, passed away February 28, 2014 of natural causes. Born in Bradner, OH on February 3, 1949, he attended Anthony Wayne High School in Whitehouse, Ohio, and graduated with a journalism degree from Bowling Green State University. A true entrepreneur, Jon formed a video production company in Phoenix in 1982, and then became a writer/producer for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Later, Jon followed his passion for sailing by taking friends and clients on trips off the coast of California and in the Caribbean. Besides Barbara, his wife of nearly 30 years, Jon is survived by sister Judy Pittman, Waterville, OH; brother Donald Sams, Toledo, OH, and brother-in-law Robert Wacke, Toledo, OH. He is preceded in death by his parents Howard and Marion Sams of Waterville, OH. Jon had a quick wit, impish smile and joie de vivre. He managed to endear everyone with his warm heart, generosity and ability to face challenges with dignity, grace, and a positive attitude. In lieu of flowers, please remember Jon with a donation to the Luther Home of Mercy in Williston, OH.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Arizona Republic on Mar. 12, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
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Bo Insogna

March 15, 2014

Our heart and prayers go out to Barb and Family. I am still in a state of shock. Jon was one of the greatest guys I know, I can still hear his laugh and always upbeat funny comments. We did a photo shoot of frying eggs on the sidewalk in Phoenix over 20 years ago and what a hoot of a time we had. There are so many things I am going to miss about him but I know we just got a really cool new angel.

CAPT Jon you will always be in our hearts!

Michael O'Connor

March 14, 2014

I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

Mike Schilling

March 13, 2014

Maybe some day we will play more games of Chess (the Holy Hand Grenade)

My only time on the boat with Jon and Barb.

Sharon Wills

March 12, 2014

I will miss you, Gomer! I hope you're having a cheeseburger in Paradise! I will make sure Barbie has some fun whenever we can get together. Love, Sharon

March 12, 2014

Gone too soon dear friend. Prayers to your family, their's is the greatest loss

Denise Purtill Barnes

March 12, 2014

My heart and prayers are with you for your loss Barb . I can't imagine what you are feeling right now . Love to you .

Reine Merriam Price

March 12, 2014

So sorry to hear this news. My best to the family.

Karen Linn Huston

March 12, 2014

Our parents were best friends and we were classmates and friends as far back as I can recall. You lived your life and laughed your life and we hold you near in our hearts for always. Wait for us Jon, at the Rainbow Bridge. Love with you.

Rachel McSurley/Coe

March 12, 2014

Jon, You will be missed!! Prayers are with you Barb & the family!

Amy Boggs

March 12, 2014

My thoughts and prayers are with you...

john mueller

March 12, 2014

Sorry to hear about Jon. He was a funny guy with a great love of adventure.

March 12, 2014

Sorry to hear about Jon. He was a funny guy with a great heart for adventure.
John Mueller.

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