Samuel "Sam" Kobrinsky

Samuel "Sam" Kobrinsky, 96, died in January 2026 in Monterey County, California, after a long and full life devoted to family, service, dentistry, and friendship. He will be remembered for his sharp mind, generous spirit, and love of cards, conversation, and the California coast.

Early life and education

Born in August 1929 in Chicago to Myer Kobrinsky and Jeane (Giulietti) Kobrinsky, Sam spent his early years surrounded by the warmth and stories of the extended Kobrinsky family in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. His upbringing in that close-knit community shaped his strong sense of responsibility, humor, and resilience.

Sam earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Manitoba, Winnipeg; a Doctor of Dental Surgery from Loyola University Chicago College of Dental Surgery; Diplomate, American Board of Periodontology from Tufts University in Boston with a Residency at Walter Reed General Hospital. His education was the foundation for a long and respected career in dental medicine.

Military service and family life

As a young dentist, Sam joined the United States Army Medical Corps. While on assignment in Yakima, Washington, he met the love of his life, Marguerite "Denny" Multz. They married in 1957 and shared 70 years together. Their life in the military was a chapter of service that would take them and their growing family across the United States and twice to Germany. When Sam was stationed at Fort Ord in 1969 they decided to call Monterey County their permanent home.

Sam and Denny raised four children-Catherine, Julia, Michael, and Chuck-while building a life centered on love, loyalty, and a sense of adventure. The moves, new towns, and new friends only deepened their bond and created a rich store of family memories.

Professional life and business ventures

Sam retired from the Army in 1975 as a Colonel. He subsequently opened his private periodontal practice in Salinas, California, where he cared for patients with a blend of technical excellence and genuine kindness. He was deeply committed to his profession and to the well-being of those who trusted him with their care.

During these years, Sam also developed a lifelong fascination with real estate investment and development. What began as an interest grew into a significant second career with projects in Salinas and San Antonio, eventually involving his son Michael and daughter Catherine, with whom he took great pride in working side by side.

Passions, personality, and community

Sam and Denny built a wonderful life on the central coast of California, surrounded by good friends, cherished neighbors, and the beauty of Monterey County. They traveled widely, but always returned with gratitude to the place they called home.

Sam loved cards-both the game and the camaraderie. He spent countless hours around card tables in private homes, at Vegas venues, and at Bankers Casino, relishing the strategy, the banter, and the friendships. In June 2024, at age 94, he notably placed 97th out of 8,000 players in the Seniors No-Limit Hold'em Championship at the World Series of Poker in Las Vegas, a feat that delighted his family and friends and perfectly captured his competitive spirit and sharp mind.

Family and legacy

Sam is survived by his wife, Denny; daughter Catherine Kobrinsky (Lee) Evans; daughter Julia (Peter) Murphy; son Michael Kobrinsky; grandchildren Louisa and Asher Solarz, Meredith Bell, Blair Williams, and Valin Kobrinsky; and great-grandchildren Taylor and Avery Bell, and Reese Williams. He was predeceased by his son, Chuck Kobrinsky, whose memory he carried with him always.

Those who knew Sam will remember his quick wit, his steady presence, his love of a good game, and his deep devotion to the people he loved. His legacy lives on in the family he nurtured, the patients he cared for, the communities he helped shape, and the many lives brightened by his kindness and humor.