Ernest Willis Sams

Ernie Sams, age 90 of Bellingham, WA passed away on Tuesday, April 19, 2016. Ernest was born May 28, 1925 in Bellingham, WA to Jacob and G. Oline Sams.

While serving in the U.S. Army during WWII he was awarded a Bronze Star for his service. He was honorably discharged in 1946. Ernie graduated from Nooksack High School and later enrolled at Western Washington State College (now WWU), where he majored in Business. After he completed his junior year Ernie was offered employment in the Business/Administrative office, where he worked in different capacities and job titles until his retirement. Ernie was recognized for his for 62 years of dedication and service to WWU with a party attended by many of his colleagues that he worked with for decades.

He was preceded in death by his first wife Evalyn, with whom he had a daughter Debra. Ernie was joined in marriage to Arnita (Decker) Fisher on August 23, 1981 and gained four step-children, Morrison and Sterling Fisher, Crystal Fisher and Betty Gerou. He is also survived by brothers Robert and David Sams, sister Alice Chowning, many grand, great, and great-great-grandchildren, and many loving relatives and friends. He was a loving and dedicated caregiver to his wife Arnita and his greatest concern was her well-being and happiness.

A celebration of Ernie’s life with military honors at 1:00 PM on Friday, April 22, 2016 at Westford Funeral Home. Reception following.