Clifford Sam

Clifford, or "Jon", as he was known to most, 63 of Virginia, passed away on May 2, 2016 at St. Michael's Health and Rehabilitation Center in Virginia
He on was born on November 11, 1952 in Soudan, the son of David and Emma (Boshey) Sam. He worked as a pulp cutter for loggers in the area, and was an interpreter at the Heritage Center at Ironworld (now Discovery Center) in Chisholm. Clifford served in the United States Army. He was a member of the Bois Forte Band of Chippewa. He lived in Minneapolis for a time, where his two children, Dana and Patrick were born. Earlier he traveled the United States and wanted to write a book on his travel adventures. Clifford loved visiting with family and friends, was an avid reader, and was a kind and caring person. Attending pow-wows were a favorite of his. Clifford had a great appreciation of the outdoors and liked music of all genres.

Clifford is survived by one son, Patrick (Britt) Engrav of Mpls; one daughter, Dana (Scott Reid) Engrav-Reid of Irvine, CA,; one brother, Roger (Kathleen) Sam of Soudan; one sister, Katherine "Katy" Laitinen of Cook; four grandchildren, Alexander and Brooke Reid and Brayden and Xavier Engrav; the mother of his children, Mary Jo Engrav of Irvine, CA; special longtime friend, Gareth Andrews of Zim; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other special extended family members.

He is preceded in death by two brothers, David Sam Jr. and Wilson C. Sam; and two sisters, Alice Sam and Marion Sam.

SERVICES: Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Thursday, May 5, 2016 at Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Rev Jeff Schirle will be the officiant. A reception in Clifford's honor will be in the social hall in St. Mary's Catholic Church in Cook. To sign the online guest book or to leave a condolence for the family go to: www.mlakerfuneralhome.com