Sam L. Gallegos

Solomon (Sam) Lionel Gallegos, 74, passed away on Sunday, March 15, 2009 at his home. Although there is a big hole left in our family, his pain and suffering has ended and he has returned to heaven to reunite with loved ones.

Sam was born on July 17, 19634 in Cham, New Mexico, as the eldest son of Solomon and Tillie Sandoval Gallegos. His family then moved to Ogden, Utah where he was reared and educated.

He married Elvia Atencio Vigil on April 27, 1957. They were blessed with five children together, Sammy, Kurt, Rich, Luke and Tiffany. They were later divorced. He later married Irene Valdez August 27, 1995; she has two children Jilyn and Mikey Valdez.

Sam honorably served his country during the Korean War from 1953 a€" 1956 and was proud to be a veteran. He worked in the automobile and railroad industry for several years before working at HAFB, where retired after 29 years of Civil Service. Dad was an extremely hard worker and instilled that work ethic in his children.

Dad was a loving father and dedicated his life to his children and grandchildren. Dad enjoyed the outdoors and his passion was his family. He loved to spend time with them whether it was camping, hunting, fishing, coaching, and watching their sports and other activities or just spending time talking. He was blessed to have lived a very full life and had many great friends, neighbors and family. He was a sincere friend to all. He was the best dad anyone could have asked for. We love you dad, you will be missed.

Sam is survived by his wife Irene, her two children Jilyn (Kanin) Rainey of Roy, Mikey (Lacey) Valdez of west haven, his five children Samuel (Vicki) Gallegos of west haven, Kurt Gallegos of Syracuse, Rich (Halley) Gallegos of Hooper, Luke ( Raquel) Gallegos of Layton, Tiffany Gallegos of Layton. He has 13 grandchildren Rachel, Tyler, Demetrio, Karlee, Kole, Jake, Megan, Joshua, Joaquin, Peyton, Cash, Marly and Kai. He has nine siblings, Jenny (Ben) Gonzalez, Luis (Maureen) Gallegos, Estella (Max) Dinsdale, Delores (Joe) Trujillo, Cookie (Lynn) Wadley, Belinda (Ken) Fierro, Erlinda Martinez, Baby Doll (Larry) McCubbin, Yolie Gomez and sister-in-law Kathy Gallegos.

He was preceded in death by his parent and Brothers Joe Celestino and Eric Woody Gallegos and his uncle Chris Sandoval a€" who had a profound impact on his life.

The family would like to thank Vista Care, especially Cynthia, Amber, and Helen, for the love and support given to Sam.

Arrangements are under the direction of Roy Lindquist Mortuary.

Mass will be held Thursday March 19th at 10am at St Mary''s Catholic Church on 4050 S 3900 W West Haven, Ut. After Church services on Thursday, a celebration of Sam''s life will be held at the home of his son in West Haven.

In lieu of flowers, take your family on a camping trip (in God''s country).