Samuel O. Lillie Sr.

MARENISCO, Mich. - Samuel O. Lillie Sr., 52, a longtime resident of Marenisco, died suddenly Thursday, Sept. 10, 2015.

Sam was born on Jan. 10, 1963, in Wakefield, a son of Edward E. Sr. and Wanna M. (Taylor) Lillie.

He served his country in the Michigan National Guard for nine years.

Sam worked for Clarence Ryskey Logging, Joe Allen Logging, TC Logging and at the Gogebic Lodge.

Sam's favorite place in Marenisco was at Dunbar Fabrication, working with his buddy, Jim Dunbar. His hobbies included hunting and fishing.

He especially loved spending time with his grandchildren.

Sam is survived by his two daughters, Candice (Howard) McGeshick and Samantha (Lillie) Baker; a son, Samuel Jr .; five grandchildren, Kachine, Wynter, Sydney "Miss Pearl," Dallas McGeshick and Mya Baker; his mother, Wanna Lillie; two brothers, Edward Jr. and Ronald (Jill); a sister, Evelyn (John) Gunderman; numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins; the love of his life, Denise Tauer; and many special friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Edward Sr., on Feb. 17, 2006; his twin-sister at birth; and a brother, Dennis, on Sept. 8, 1991.

Per his wishes, cremation has taken place.

A Celebration of Life will be held Tuesday, Sept. 15, at 11 a.m., preceded by visitation at 9 a.m., at the Marenisco Town Hall, with Dennis Mattila officiating.

Committal services and interment will follow in Marenisco Cemetery.

A luncheon will be served at the town hall upon return from the cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Jerald Rocco, owner-manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield. Online condolences may be made at lakesidememorialchapel.com.