65GT 05-12-2007 @ 5:25 PM
SAM PTOMEY1919-2007
Everyone would describe Sam Ptomey as simple and humble, but he possessed a quite strength that inspired all he encountered. He was the definition of a gentle man. He would light up whenever one of the small great or great-great grandchildren showed up - immediately reaching out to hold them with the most amazing smile on his face. He was a quiet sentry for each of his three daughters and all their off-spring. He was the comforter to those in need. He was the rock of his family and we all were inspired and awed by him in the life that the lead and the example that he set for us. But, he was so much more to so many others. Although he was exempt from World War II, he was recruited for his special skills and gladly went to defend his country, leaving two very young daughters back at home. He achieved the Master Rifleman ranking and received the World War II Victory Medal, the Philippine Liberation Medal with Star, the APTO Medal and the Good Conduct Medal while serving as a Staff Sergeant. In 1946 he obtained the sublime degree of Master Mason and on May 10, 2006 was awarded his sixty year certificate. He worked for L and N Railroads for 44 years and retired as a Conductor. His years with the railroad provided his family with many amazing and funny stories. The railroad was so much more than a job to Sam.
He was one of the founding members of Lakeview Baptist Church and helped to physically build it where he later became a deacon. He was the president of WBCCI Air Stream Club and spent numerous fulfilling years traveling with his wife, Norma, all over this beautiful land. He was a member of the Scottish Rite and very proud of his Scottish heritage.
His daughters will remember him for his steadfast support of them and for his unconditional love - he was always there and would see a need and fulfill it before the need was even known to anyone else. His grandchildren will remember the delicious egg sandwiches that he would make on early mornings when they were the only ones awake. The wisdom he imparted to us and the love he taught us during those times were the most valuable things he could give to each of us. He was never selfish with his time.
He has now reunited with his soul mate of 60 years, Norma and with his middle daughter, Judy Leahy. They leave a legacy that will be hard to measure up to, but those of us that remain are determined to make them proud.
He is survived by his daughters Doris Campbell and Frances Hinely; Son-in-law Bob Leahy; grandchildren Beth Cooley, Terri Slay, Robert Bass, Deborah Pelczar, Sally Robinette, Kohn Rabin, Sammie and Jackson Hinely; his brother and sister-in-law Fay and Mac McAlister; twelve great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren.
Sam Ptomey passed away on May 2, 2007. His funeral service will be Saturday, May 5, 2007 at 10 AM in Bayview Fisher-Pou Chapel, burial will follow in Bayview Memorial Park. Reverend Charles Mitchell will be officating the services.
Family will receive friends for visitation Friday, May 4, 2007 from 6-8 PM.
Arrangements made by BAYVIEW FISHER-POU CHAPEL, 3351 Scenic Hwy, Pensacola, FL.
http://www.legacy.com/pensacolanewsjournal/Obituaries.asp?Page=Notice&PersonID=87741871Coloradobus 06-01-2007 @ 4:25 PM
Sorry to hear this news.
This message was edited by Coloradobus on 6-1-07 @ 4:26 PM
