Page created by: Virginia Parks

Samuel "Sam" Parks, age 83, passed away peacefully on March 30, 2025, in Arden, North Carolina. He was born on July 15, 1941, in Wagner, South Dakota, on the Yankton Sioux reservation. Sam lived a life marked by love—to his family, work, and many passions.

Sam served in the United States Army from October 13, 1959, to October 12, 1962. He completed boot camp at Fort Ord in California before being stationed in Rhode Island and France. During his time in Rhode Island, he met his future wife and the love of his life.

After his military service, Sam began his professional journey as a tool and die operator with several companies, including Federal Stamping and Dahl Manufacturing. Always eager to learn and grow, he attended ECPI, Valley College, and Pierce College to study computer programming—a field that would shape the majority of his career. Specializing in the COBOL programming language, Sam worked for many years with a clothing manufacturer and a human resources consulting firm. His analytical mind and problem-solving skills made him a valued contributor throughout his career.

Sam held varied positions in industry and community associations, including Chapter President for the Data Processing Management Association, President for the Reseda Community Association, Director of the Reseda Kiwanis Club, and Associate Director of the Reseda Chamber of Commerce.

Sam shared 62 devoted years of marriage with his beloved wife, Virginia “Ginny” Parks. Together, they built a life filled with love and laughter, raising two children—Lori Parks Kintz and Gary Parks—and eventually welcoming four cherished granddaughters: Kaitlin Parks, Chelsea Kintz, Hayley Kintz, and Emily Parks. Sam was immensely proud of his children and grandchildren and found great joy in their accomplishments. He was so happy to be a Papa to his granddaughters.

He is also remembered by his son-in-law Greg Kintz; siblings John Parks (and sister-in-law Virginia Parks), Katie Parks, Diane Thornton (and brother-in-law Larry Thornton), and Larry Parks. He was preceded in death by his parents Miles and Ethel Parks and his sister Barbara Parks.

After their marriage, Sam and Ginny moved from Rhode Island to California and lived there for many years. They then moved to North Carolina to enjoy their retirement together. Their home was always a place of comfort, and family and friends were always welcome.

Sam had an insatiable curiosity about the world around him. A lifelong reader with interests spanning countless subjects, he especially enjoyed westerns, thrillers, science fiction, and history. Favorite authors included Louis L’Amour, Tom Clancy, and Taylor Caldwell. He loved nothing more than diving into a good book or engaging in spirited philosophical debate. He was an avid board game player who never turned down a good poker night. A devoted movie fan and long-time NASCAR enthusiast, Sam also enjoyed bowling, fishing, and occasionally tinkered as a car mechanic. One of his most meaningful pursuits was researching and understanding his Native American ancestry—a journey he approached with reverence and dedication.

Diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease ten years ago, Sam faced each day with courage and determination. Despite the toll it took on him physically, he remained positive and engaged with life. His family is deeply proud of how courageously he faced each day. Throughout it all, Ginny stood steadfastly by his side as caregiver and companion—lovingly caring for him every step of the way.

An informal memorial gathering to honor Sam’s life will be held on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, from 3:00 PM at Ardenwoods Retirement Community in the Clubhouse, located at 2400 Appalachian Boulevard in Arden, North Carolina (28704).

The family invites you to honor Sam’s courage in dealing with Parkinson’s Disease by donating in his honor to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research

Sam’s beautiful blue eyes lit up every room he entered. His quick wit brought laughter, his patience offered comfort, and his love left an indelible mark on those fortunate to know him. May he be remembered for the love he gave so freely, and may his memory bring peace to all who mourn him today.