Sammie H. Effinger

Sammie H. Effinger
Alton - Sammie H. Effinger, 79, of Fosterburg, went to be with the Lord, on August 9, 2025. He fought a courageous battle with failing health for over seven years, which ended sadly in LaBella Nursing Home Hospice for his last several months.
He was born December 7, 1946 in Ullin, Ill., the son of Tommie and Opal (Kessler) Effinger.
He is survived by his loving wife, Maryann Rizzotto Effinger, who resides at Eagle Ridge Assisted Living in Decatur.
Sam's first wife, Catherine, of 42 years, passed away in 2012. Sam, Cathy, and MaryAnn had been friends since they were teenagers.
Sam was the Control Systems Engineer for Shell Oil Refinery, Wood River, for over 30 years. Sam was also the Radar and Electronic Specialist on the USS Ullmann warship as part of the US Blue Water Navy during the Vietnam war.
Sam was an avid amateur radio operator since he was 15 years old. He is known all over the world as K9SD to other radio operators for his expertise in communications in both emergencies and in peaceful times.
Sam is also survived by his two sons, Walter and Jeremy; along with his granddaughter, Nola Effinger. He also has a stepdaughter, Kim. His two sisters, both of Arkansas, are Jacqueline Crider and Sallie Clark, along with nieces and nephews. Surviving also are his two special lifelong friends, Jim Dawson and Tom Manis, who were like brothers to him. All who knew him will remember his loving and jovial personality.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Nick Effinger.
Per Sam's request, he chose to have a private cremation with no service, and to have his remains placed with his family at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto.
Marks Mortuary in Wood River in charge of arrangements.