Sam (Roy) C. Eckenrod, Jr., 81, of Creekside, was called home to be with his Lord on Friday, Jan. 31, 2020.
Sam was born on Oct. 2, 1938, in Ernest, to Roy C. and Anna (Kanaba) Eckenrod.
Sam married his best friend, Peggy (Johnston). They enjoyed 60 years of happiness and were blessed with three children, Mark (Kathy Sue), of Marion Center; Marcey (John) Barna, of Homer City; and Mistie (Eric) Blazavich, of Creekside.
Pappy Sam loved his three grandchildren, Samantha “Sam” Barna, and Isabel and Benjamin Blazavich, from the bottom of his heart. He is also survived by his sister, Janice (Casey) Moore, of Home; and his brother-in-law and dear friend, Dave Johnston, of Creekside.
Sam owned and operated his businesses, Sam’s TV and the Creekside Country Peddler, for many years before his retirement.
He also proudly served on the REA Energy Cooperative Board of Directors for 37 years, holding many board offices at the local and state levels. He was awarded the Miracle Mile Award for his dedicated service.
Sam was a man of many talents and loved to create “something from nothing.” He used his creativity to bless countless family, friends, and customers with treasured handmade items, art and furniture created from vintage and reclaimed materials. When Sam looked at an empty antique radio cabinet, he saw a beautiful jewelry box; when he looked at a pile of antique doors, he saw a custom bench; and most notably, when he looked at an abandoned local historic train station, he envisioned a beautiful home. He was able to save nearly all of the architectural salvage from that train station to help create his favorite project and creative outlet, his personal masterpiece, his family home.
In his free time, Sam enjoyed walking his beloved dog, “Annie,” collecting antiques, and spending time with his family. Always ready to lend a hand or offer an uplifting word, Sam will be remembered by those who knew him for his great kindness. He will be missed.
Sam was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Roberta.
Per Sam’s wishes, funeral services will be private and at the convenience of his family, entrusted to Robinson-Lytle, Inc.
