Eric "Sam" Samuel Hedges

Eric Samuel Hedges, known affectionately as Sam to his family and friends, passed away peacefully on April 6, 2024, in Topeka, Kansas. Sam was born on May 10, 1938, in Offerle, Kansas, to the late Benjamin and Hazel (Schenck) Hedges. His heart and humor brought light and joy to all who knew him, and while his passing leaves a void, his legacy of love and laughter will endure.

Sam grew up in a large and lively family, among 15 siblings who have all predeceased him. Despite the loss of his brothers Harold, Benjamin, Eugene, Robert Lynn, Eldon Thomas, Ronald, Donald, Edward Emmett and sisters Ethel, Beulah, Olive, Mary, Erma, Ella May, and Carol, the tales of their collective childhood adventures in Offerle would always be retold with warmth and affection.

After graduating high school, Sam attended Garden City Community College, where his passion for football shone brightly. He then proudly served his country in the United States Army, stationed in Kitzingen, Germany, with the 3rd Infantry Division. Those years were marked by hard work and the forging of lifelong friendships. And most importantly, the marriage to the love of his life, Sharon (Sheehy), and the birth of their first child, Shawn.

Upon returning to the States, Sam and Sharon raised a beautiful family, including their daughter Shawn, sons Stephen (wife Deena) and John (wife Melissa), and daughter Ann Fletcher (husband Mike), who along with their spouses, gave Sam the joy of being a grandfather to Benjamin (wife Shasin), Andrew (partner Jessica), Eric Fletcher, Sarah Fletcher, and Gretchen and great grandfather to Luke and Mia. Sam's role as a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather was where he felt most at home, his heart full in the company of his beloved family.

After several years of raising Shawn, Stephen, and Ann in Garden City where he worked at John Deere and Farr Better Feeds and was President of the St Mary's Catholic School Board, Sam and Sharon moved to Scott City, Kansas, where John was born. In Scott City, Sam dedicated over two decades to managing Scott Pro Feeders, where his leadership and work ethic became a testament to his character. Sam's knack for solving problems extended beyond his professional life; he was the family's go-to handyman, capable of fixing everything from stubborn appliances to finicky cars.

An avid outdoorsman and sportsman, especially in his younger years, Sam relished every opportunity to play games or go fishing with his kids, grandkids, and close friends. And, on occasion, he would be seen taking the grandkids to the local city park to "hunt" nightcrawlers, later resorting to "electrifying" them in his front yard, for bait. His laughter was as infectious on the serene lakes as it was within the walls of his home. For a time, he even embraced the art of sailing, navigating the waters of Scott Lake with an adventurous spirit. Last, but not least, were his excitement of cheering on his kids and grandkids in all arrays of sports competitions and his joy of traveling to see the wonders of the country he loved. You could tell he was proud to dote on his young competitors (and, at times, provide constructive criticism to referees) or to exclaim he had made it to every state except Oregon. We can only assume that he has made it there by now.

Sam's love for his family was only matched by his generosity and sense of humor. He cherished every moment of life, to give without expecting to receive, and to find friendship and camaraderie around every corner. A testament of this were his Wednesday "Prayer Meetings" with some of his dearest friends to talk politics, town happenings and, not least, to share jokes best kept amongst the group. If not in the company of friends, it was a good bet you would find him talking to the local neighbor kids whom he loved like his own.

Sam's life was one of purpose and joy, and those who knew him were touched by his loving nature, his funny anecdotes, and his generous spirit. His absence will be felt deeply by his family, including his wife of 64 years, Sharon, his children, and their spouses, as well as his treasured grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Sam's legacy will live on in the hearts and memories of those who loved him, and his story will be recounted with fondness and admiration for generations to come.

A traditional obituary would be remiss if it did not mention that Sam's life was not just well-lived, but also well-loved. It is with great respect and affection that we bid farewell to Sam Hedges—a beacon of love, laughter, and generosity. His was a life that exemplified the best of us, and while he may have departed from this earthly realm, the impact of his spirit remains indelible. Rest in peace.

A celebration of his life will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to one of Sam's favorite charities: The Salvation Army, Scott City, KS.