Obituary of Pete Sams

Jasper “Pete” Marion Sams (89) resident of Fernwood, ID passed away at his home on October 11, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.  He was born to Harvey and Elanor Sams on January 5, 1935, in Walla Walla, WA.  Pete graduated from Kennewick High School where he met the love of his life, Della Wheeler.  After high school, Della proposed marriage to Pete, and the couple married in 1955. 

Pete enlisted in the U.S. Army where he served in Korea and Hawaii.  He traveled all over for the Work Corps of Engineers, specifically the Pacific Northwest.  Pete was the only man to survey Hells Canyon, earning him an award for his efforts.  He also worked for the Forest Service in Colville, WA

After winning a game of poker in the back room of the Kootenai Inn (who was owned by Pete’s mother in-law), he obtained property out in Fernwood.  In 1992 he relocated his daughter and granddaughter onto that property, and in 2008 he and Della joined them and have been in Fernwood ever since.  Pete ran OWI Land Surveying out of Fernwood.  He loved the outdoors and rode 4 wheelers and snowmobiles.  Pete also enjoyed hunting, fishing, tinkering, woodworking, and mechanics.  He owned a bobcat that also kept him busy.    

Pete is survived by his wife at their home in Fernwood; daughter Vicki Sams Dunlap of Fernwood; and granddaughter Christina Applegaurd.  He is preceded in death by his son Randy Sams and grandson Shawn Griffin.  Military honors were held privately at the Sam’s home to honor Pete.