Sam S. Flake Sr.

Sam S. Flake Sr., 89, passed away peacefully at home in his recliner on Feb. 8, 2015. Never living far from his childhood roots, Sam grew up in Hastings, spent many years in Jacksonville and the last 30 years in St. Augustine. After graduating from Carlisle Military School, Sam served in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1946. After landing at Normandy Beach, he took part in many campaigns including the Battle of the Bulge. He received the Bronze Star for reconnaissance work done early in his tour by voluntarily swimming a river to assess German strength in a fortified village.
Sam enjoyed travelling, Florida Gator football, playing cards and entertaining his family and friends with his humorous recollections of his war experiences, his car salesman antics and of course, his fish stories.
He is survived by his longtime partner, Jeanette Smith of St. Augustine; his daughter, Karen Candler and son-in-law, Chris Candler of Atlanta, Ga.; grandchildren, Christopher Sizemore, Lanie Blanchard, Lacy Flake, Steven Candler, Matthew Candler and Charles Candler, as well as five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son, Sam Flake, Jr. A graveside memorial service will be held at 12:30 p.m., Friday, Feb. 20, 2015, at Jacksonville National Cemetery.
Craig Funeral Home, Crematory, and Memorial Park is in charge of arrangements.