Sam Jenkins Jr

12/04/1931 - 08/24/2024

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Obituary For Sam Jenkins Jr

Samuel Jenkins Jr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home in Edgewood, WA on August 24, 2024. He was 92 years old. Born on December 4, 1931, in Worthington, MN, Sam lived a full and vibrant life. He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel and Eva Jenkins, his five sisters, three of his brothers, and his eldest son, Ron. Sam is survived by his devoted wife of 69 years, Ann, with whom he shared a beautiful life and many adventures while raising their 7 children: Ron, Jane (Don), John (Cindy), Shirley (Brett), Dan (Corrie), Rick (Kristy), and Ken (Teri). He also leaves behind his younger brother, Doug. He will be dearly missed by his 15 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild, and numerous extended family members and friends.

Also known as "Junee" to many, Sam, was a proud Korean War veteran who served as a medic. After his military service, he worked as a truck driver and later opened his own trucking and excavation businesses. He had a courageous spirit and a fearless zest for life. As a teenager, he worked on the railroad in Alaska. It is there in Talkeetna, AK that he met and befriended the legendary bush pilots, the Hudson brothers, and thus began his lifelong love of flying. In recent years he was very fond of flying as an honorary “copilot” with his good friend Randy. Sam had a knack for bringing people together, whether it was at the beloved Paradise Lodge, mountain cabins, cruises, or family trips to Leavenworth, Chelan, etc.

Known for his generosity, sense of humor, and love for singing and storytelling, Sam always knew how to light up a room. He had an infectious smile and laugh. His green eyes would twinkle when it was time to share a good meal with loved ones. Don’t forget the pecan pie or chocolate for dessert! Sam and Ann enjoyed their beautiful home and property, "The Top of the World," where they took in breathtaking mountain views, sunrises and sunsets. Their loyal dog Cheeto was his constant companion, following him wherever he went. They also had two wonderful caregivers who were so loved and appreciated.

Sam was the cornerstone of his large family, and his absence will be deeply felt. His legacy of love and laughter will live on through all who knew him. We will always keep him close to our hearts, remembering and cherishing the wonderful memories we shared with him.

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  • 10/03/2024

    I don't remember meeting Sammy but, I've been told, I was about 5 years old. Sam's best friend, in the grade school days, was my Uncle Allen Thomas. Allen brought Sam to our house in South Tacoma to see his sister, Katherine Bradeen (AKA Kate) my mom. My mom and Sammy had a special life long relationship. When he and Allen went off to war, Kate wrote to both of them weekly or more..... Reading materials, magazines, jokes and things she hoped would help the unthinkable and abhorrent thing called war. Always sending Prayer's for there safty and signed with blessings and love. One day at the sound of a blast and call for a medic, Sam started out full speed as minutes counted. He turned back to get his helmet and other required safty items, because a thought flashed that "he could get a letter from Kate today." The brief few seconds saved his life and continued to magnify that beautiful and exceptional bond they had. For her there was none other like it. Sam showed his love for her in special ways. As special as the person he was. I have no doubt that they are still as close as ever. Heaven wouldn't have it any other way. Blessings Be and love to all the family. Bobbi Rogers

  • 09/05/2024

    Although our hearts are heavy with grief, I want to take this opportunity to honor Sam by sharing the joy, love and laughter he brought into our lives. I met Sam thru his son, Kenny who I work with. I remembered, everytime I call Sam to go flying, he would always sing a song 🎶"A flying we will go, a flying we will go"...(Lol) Life is too short not to laugh, and it's in that spirit that I'd like to share some stories about the amazing flying ✈️ co-pilot Sam was. We shared the same passion for flying. He loved flying as much as I do. We flew to many different places and we had so much fun. I will always cherish those memories we had. Sam was a very generous and kind person. My wife and I got married at Paradise Lodge as Sam's wedding gift to us. I am very grateful to him and the family. Thank you Sam. I know you're flying with the angels in heaven. 👼😇

  • 09/04/2024

    Love you uncle Sam.

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