Robert Norman Samel

OBITUARY Robert Norman Samel of St. James, MO departed this life in St. James on April 8, 2022, having reached the age of ninety-nine years, two months and twenty-four days. Robert was born in St. Louis, MO on January 15, 1923, son of Norman Samel and Maud Samel nee White. On February 20, 1946 he was united in marriage to Cecilia Marie Liikala and seven children came to bless this union. Robert is survived by his sons, Patrick Samel of Rolla, MO and Danny Samel and wife, Mona, of Luebbering, MO; by four daughters, Pam Benson and husband, Bruce, of Villa Ridge, MO, Marianne Lindsey and husband, Bill, of Union, MO, Barbara Leadbetter of St. Clair, MO and Donna Hinson of St. Clair; by sixteen grandchildren, thirty-three great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great and great-great-nieces and nephews, cousins and many friends. Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Maud Samel; by his wife, Cecilia Samel; by one infant daughter; by his brothers, Earl Samel and Richard Samel; and by his sister, Marilyn Martin. Robert was a Christian, having been raised in the Catholic faith and believing in the Lord as his Savior. He was proud to have served his country in the United States Army during World War II, entering on June 7, 1943 and receiving his honorable discharge on January 30, 1946. During his working career he worked as a carpenter, doing mostly commercial construction for the carpenter’s union as well as various contracting companies. He played baseball for the St. Louis Browns farm league as a young man. Robert enjoyed fishing and hunting and taking vacation trips, especially to Michigan. What meant most to him was the time he cherished spending time with family. The love they shared and many precious memories they created will forever live on in their hearts. A kind and loving father, father-in-law, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, great and great-great-uncle, cousin and treasured friend, he will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew and loved him. A private committal with full military honors will take place at a later date. The family entrusted the care of their loved one to Russell Colonial Funeral Home in St. Clair, MO.

Robert Norman Samel

January 15, 1923 - April 8, 2022