Samuel 'Sam' B. Barton

Samuel ‘Sam’ B. Barton, 90, of Grand Island, passed away on October 17, 2025, at Heritage at Sagewood. Per his wishes cremation was chosen, and a private family burial will be held at a later date. All Faiths Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements. Sam was born on September 23, 1935, in Scottsbluff, NE to Samuel R. and Marie (Gilbert) Barton Jr. He was raised and received his education in Gering, graduating from Gering High School in 1953. He then went on to attend Scottsbluff Junior College and University of Nebraska Lincoln, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration in 1958. On August 31, 1957, Sam was united in marriage to Joan Elaine Runge at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Omaha, Nebraska. Sam and Joan first met at church camp. After their wedding they lived in Lincoln, Falls City, and then made their home in Grand Island. Sam and Joan were married 63 years when his wife passed in 2020. Two daughters were born into this union. Sam began his career with Equifax as a Field Representative in 1958 and retired as a District Manager in 1991. After retirement, he continued working odd jobs to keep busy. Sam was a member of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church; and enjoyed the various activities he was a part of for the church, such as being a lay reader, a member of the choir, and a lay minister taking communion to smaller communities that did not have a church. He and his wife Joan were involved in the pet therapy program at the skilled care unit of St. Francis and visited the unit weekly with their beloved shelties Butch and Abby. Sam also volunteered his time to local hospitals taking patients to procedures, and assisting with delivering mail. Sam has also donated hundreds of gallons of blood over the years, saving countless lives. In his spare time, Sam enjoyed watching sports, dancing, and playing cards. Those left to cherish his memory include his daughters, Debbie (John) White, Susan (Scott) Hooker, both of Grand Island; five grandchildren, Andrea (Jason) McDonald of Aurora, Meghan Hooker of Lincoln, Daniel White of Grand Island, Nick (Bailey) Hooker of Doniphan, Tyler (Hannah) Hooker of Grand Island; nine great grandchildren; and sister, Mary Lou Meldrom. Sam was preceded in death by his wife, Joan; and great grandson, Jayden McDonald.

Samuel 'Sam' B. Barton

September 23, 1935 - October 17, 2025

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Samuel 'Sam' B. Barton

September 23, 1935 - October 17, 2025

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

Plan Ahead

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

Contact Information

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