John J. Sam Jr.

John Sam, age 76, of Hanover Park, Il beloved husband, dad, Papa, Uncle, brother-in-law, friend and all-around good guy, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, October 2, 2026.

Born on April 27, 1950 in Chicago, Il John was the beloved son of John and Mary Lou Sam. John served his country in the United States Marine Corps.

John was lucky to find the love of his life, Arlene, and they somehow managed to make married life look easy. They shared 54 blissful years together and built a beautiful family together. They raised two wonderful daughters, Niki and Kristy who share Johns love of laughter, the joy of a good time and a good drink (well, maybe just one of the girls share that love. I'll let you guess which one...),.and his love of sports. Growing up you could find John and the girls on 'the hill" perfecting their softball swing, or catching a fly ball. 

John was the proud Papa to Taylor, Johnny and Cam. If you knew John then you probably know everything about his three grandkids. They are lucky to know a love like his and they never have to question just how much he loved them. John spent more hours sitting on the bleachers watching countless softball, baseball, volleyball, basketball, football games and track meets cheering his grandkids on. He never missed a game and was their number one fan. If John and the kids weren't at a sporting event you could probably find them in the pool. How lucky are they to have so many wonderful memories to cherish forever.

John shared many good times with his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Janice, Ray, Pat and Ed along with his niece and nephews at countless family gatherings where John was usually the life of the party. 

John started his career as a Detective, but after 12 years, John had to walk away. Sometimes being ethical and doing the right thing means walking away from something you love. John later went on to have a successful career in Sales, where he worked at the same company for 37 years. This just tells you Johns level of loyalty and commitment. Even though John loved his work if you would have asked him what his dream job would have been, his answer would have been a Cowboy or Pro Golfer.

John found great joy in his work, he found an even greater joy in traveling, playing golf, and spending time with friends, but his greatest joy was his family. John was our provider, protector and our steady strength that held our family together. He will be missed immensely, and will be remembered and celebrated for the amazing husband, dad and Papa that he was and always will be.

Memorials in John's name can be made to The Americans Cancer Society.