Sam L. Afrank

Sam L. Afrank, 79, of Cedar Rapids, NE, passed away surrounded by family on Friday, January 2, 2026 at the Boone County Health Center in Albion, NE.

In accordance with his firmly held wishes, Sam donated his body to science, hoping to contribute to healthcare education and advancement.

The family welcomes everyone to celebrate Sam's life at a memorial service at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at Levander Funeral Home in Albion, NE with Pastor Mick Goc officiating and military rites conducted by American Legion Post #44 of Cedar Rapids, NE and the Army Funeral Honor Guard. Visitation will be from 9:00-11:00 a.m. Wednesday at Levander Funeral Home in Albion, NE. Inurnment will be held at a later date at Sunrise Cemetery, Cedar Rapids, NE.

Sammy Lynn Afrank, known to many as Sam, was the first born of Victor and Betty (Powers) Afrank of Cedar Rapids, NE. He grew up on the family farm and graduated from high school in Cedar Rapids in 1965. He served his country in the United States Army as a Specialist Fourth Class (SP4/E-4) with the 45th Medical Battalion, 3rd Armored Division ("Spearhead"), from November 1966 to March 1968. During his service, he held the position of Senior Radio Operator, a role in which he was later awarded for outstanding performance. He was an active and proud member of the American Legion Post #44 of Cedar Rapids.

After returning home from the military, Sam spent many years working in the logging and sawmill industry – a field that suited his deep appreciation for wood and nature. Around 2005, he moved back to the homeplace and married Linda in 2006, where he embraced the land and lifestyle that small town Nebraska has to offer.

Sam had a profound connection with the natural world. He was an avid arborist with a masterful knowledge of plants, trees, and insects. He found joy in observing Mother Nature's rhythms. Whether it was tending to trees or studying the smallest creatures, Sam's curiosity and respect for the environment were lifelong passions. He also enjoyed history, reading, and kept a close eye on current events through Fox News. He truly enjoyed connecting with others, sharing stories, and talking about all the things he was passionate about with anyone he came into contact with.

Sam is survived by his wife Linda Afrank of Cedar Rapids, NE; three sons from a previous marriage: Jason (Theresa) Afrank of Sutton, AK; Chris (Jamie) Afrank of Columbus, NE; David (Stacy) Afrank of Tea, SD; 11 grandchildren: Daniel; Kelsi (Jerry); Kaitlyn; Joslynn; Isiah; Kirsten; Logan; Janae; Allyson; Gavin; Xander; three great-grandchildren: Emma; Ella; Eva; his loyal companion Stanley who was his best fur bud and was always by his side for any and all adventures; siblings: Carol Marker; Vicki (Gary) Baxter; Barb (Marv) Zoucha; Janet Afrank; and Terry Afrank; Furthermore, there are many extended family and friends within the community who will remember him. A man of quiet strength with a deep reverence for nature that ran deep into Nebraska soil, Sam will be missed by all who knew him. May Sam's memory bring comfort to those who loved him during this difficult time.

Sam was preceded in death by his parents; and younger brother: Tony.