Samuel Owen Smith

I didn't know Sam well, but remember what a gracious, kind and loving soul he was from the summer of 2007 when, together with another St. Joseph's parent, the three of us lead and chaperoned a group of middle school children, including our own (I believe it was Audrey who came with us), on an Agape service learning trip. We travelled together in the church mini-bus and Sam said a pretty vigorous, "No thank you!"to driving! Thankfully though, he was endlessly helpful to me as I drove such a beast for the first time - keeping an eye out for directions, keeping high energy passengers happy and occupied and more. In the Bellingham area, we joined our children in learning about the hard realities of life as a migrant worker. Much of the the work we did was not easy - like the experience of picking blueberries for hours in the hot sun (not the fun experience of a family adventure, but a taste of the backbreaking reality of harvesting produce day in and day out). Sometimes the kids got tired, discouraged or frustrated, and Sam was one of those people who could immediately be a patient and understanding salve to weariness, as well as a cheerleader who could coax out just a little more energy. He was so easy and such a joy to work with and brought peace and warmth to the group. It is so sad that the world lost such a beautiful husband, father, son and friend far too soon. My deepest condolences to you Julie, Andrea and Audrey and to all the family and friends who loved and cherished Sam. I am so grateful for the opportunity I had to spend that week experiencing his goodness.