ERIC SAMUEL "SAM" HEDGES

ERIC "SAM" SAMUEL HEDGES Eric Samuel Hedges, affectionately known as Sam, passed away peacefully on April 6, 2024, in Topeka, Kansas. Born on May 10, 1938, in Offerle, Kansas, Sam's humor and warmth touched all who knew him. Despite growing up with limited financial means, Sam's childhood tales were always filled with joy and happiness. Sam attended Garden City Community College to play football before serving in the U.S. Army in Germany. He married Sharon Sheehy, and together they raised four children: Shawn, Stephen (Deena), John (Melissa), and Ann Fletcher (Mike). Sam delighted in being a grandfather to Benjamin (Shasin), Andrew (Jessica), Eric, Sarah, and Gretchen, and a great-grandfather to Luke and Mia. After serving in the Army, Sam worked at John Deere and Farr Better Feeds and served as President of the St. Mary's Catholic School Board in Garden City. In Scott City, Sam managed Scott Pro Feeders for over two decades while actively engaging in family activities and outdoor pursuits. His love for his family was matched only by his generosity and sense of humor. Sam was preceded in death by his brothers Harold, Benjamin, Eugene, Robert Lynn, Eldon Thomas, Ronald, Donald, and Edward Emmett and his sisters Ethel, Beulah, Olive, Mary, Erma, Ella May, and Carol. He is survived by his wife Sharon, his children and their spouses, as well as his cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Sam's absence leaves a void, but his legacy of love and laughter will endure. May he rest in peace. He was cremated as per his wishes. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to one of the following charities is appreciated. Salvation Army of Garden City: http://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/gardencity Hope's Closet and Breadbasket of Scott City: 311 N. Main St., Scott City, KS 67871 (clothes and non-perishable food only)