Samuel “Sam” Leopold Wood, a longtime resident of Helena, Montana passed away on July 7, 2019 at St. Peters hospital at the age of 66 from cirrhosis. He was born on November 21, 1953 in Lowell, Massachusetts to parents Albert and Lucie Wood. He was the eldest of 7.
Sam enlisted into the US Army in Butte, Montana in 1976. He was trained at Fort Belvoir, Virginia where he was “disciplined, well-motivated, and an extremely productive squad leader”. He married Kellie Rusek in 1977 and moved to Fort Lewis, Washington where his primary specialty was as a power generator and wheel vehicle mechanic. They decided to start a family a short time after, beginning with the birth of their son Samuel. He was later honorably discharged in 1979. They moved back to Helena, Montana and had their daughter Krystle.
In 1989 Sam decided it was best to relocate to Auburn, Washington to raise his family. He continued to do what he enjoyed, working on cars. He did everything from autobody, mechanics, all the way to painting cars. Sam and Kellie divorced in 1997 after 20 years of marriage. Sam would enjoy taking family vacations, going to car shows, racing slot cars and riding his Harley Davidson.
Sam retired in 2015 and moved back to the town he loved, Helena, Montana. Sam always liked to be on the go out meeting new people and visiting family and friends. His bright smile and laugh would evoke a lasting friendship with all he encountered. He always had his video recorder or camera, and loved taking pictures capturing every moment. Sam was a kind and loving man with a huge heart that would always help someone in need.
Sam was preceded in death by his parents: Albert and Lucie, his sister Kathy, and his brother Al.
He is survived by his son Sammy (Tiffany); daughter Krystle; sister Mary; brothers James, Joe and Bill; nieces and nephews; and grandchildren; Cozette, Cooper and Sophia.
Sam was an organ donor and the gift of his corneas has been given to help restore vision to a blind recipient. Upon his wishes, his remains will be spread at the top of MacDonald Pass where he can be with his mother, sister and brother. May he rest in peace, until we meet again. We all love him and will miss him.
A memorial gathering is scheduled from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Friday July, 12 at Big Sky Cremations in East Helena, Montana.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Sam’s name to Westmont, 2708 Bozeman Avenue, Helena, MT 59601.
Service Schedule
Service Schedule
Share
Reader Interactions
Memories
Read the thoughts and memories, then feel free to add your own.
Mike Tolon says
Very sorry for your loss of Sam, he was a great friend, we had a lot of great times together and will be missed by many. Sam videoed a lot of car shows over the years, many from out of state that I was not able to attend. Rest in peace with a little bit of straight pipe noise from time to time.
Your friend Mike Tolon
Anonymous says
Beautiful in Blue was purchased for the family of Samuel “Sam” Wood.
Anonymous says
Florist Choice Bouquet was purchased for the family of Samuel “Sam” Wood.
Anonymous says
Beautiful in Blue was purchased for the family of Samuel “Sam” Wood.
Anonymous says
Sacred Duty Spray was purchased for the family of Samuel “Sam” Wood.
Steve Koester says
After knowing you for 35 years you will be missed. I do hope you journey well on this next adventure. I will see you again soon, but not to soon. Steve Koester
Steve Koester says
Sam and his show winning Harley-Davidson !
steve Koester says
I have known you 38 years, Now that you have journeyed on to the next adventure you will be missed by all. I will see you soon, but not to soon.
Edna Smathers says
Edna Smathers purchased the Beautiful Dreams for the family of Samuel “Sam” Wood.
Nicolle Seiller says
I believe Sam to be one of the kindest, gentlest people who have ever crossed my path. I hope he knew how many times he made my life better. With his unselfish behavior and his understanding kindness, he truly was a blessing to me. Thank you my friend. I will see you on the other side.
MERI Pedersen says
Sam will be missed by everyone in ISLE Minnesota .He was so funny.to all who new him. And yes his dear dog precious .both together now.
Mary Pedersen says
My favorite brother. I still wait for the phone to ring every two days. Kevin and I talk about you often the fun times the planning trips and working together. The best times of fishing in Minnesota. Love your sister Mary
liz Hines says
Mary,
My name is Elizabeth Mahoney from Lowell, MA. I am your first cousin. My mom is your Aunt Peggy. We spoke with Sam often and he was a wonderful person. In fact, my 8 year old is Sam as well after our grandfather. My mother would love to hear from you. If you are interested, let me know and I will send you her number- my email is. lizhines6@hotmail.com