Beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, James Elon Sample, 83, of Butte, Montana, passed away on Saturday, April 03, 2021 at Copper Ridge Health and Rehabilitation Center in Butte, Montana James was born on November 12, 1937 in Mount Vernon, Washington, the son of Hobart Elon and Alma Vera (Duncan) Sample.

James' great-grandfather, Alvin E. Sample, was a member of the Pioneers of Kansas; he had served in the Civil War and was instrumental in the building of the first school, the first church, and had the first electric power in the town of Lyons, Kansas. He was very proud of his many accomplishments.

James attended the Lincoln School and Butte High School. He served in the United States Navy after his marriage to Marlene Sutey. He served on two main ships overseas in, and around, Japan; the U.S.S. Dixie and the U.S.S. Chanticleer. He was very proud of his military heritage, which dates back to the Sterling Bridge Battle in Scotland.

James was employed for 32 years as a Surveyor for the Montana Highway Department and worked on the side for Charles Staschel at Chuck's Landscaping. He enjoyed hunting and fishing. After his retirement, he enjoyed the company of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

James was preceded in death by his wife, Marlene Sample; and his daughter, Cindy Starcevich. He is survived by his son, James Elon Sample, Jr., his daughter, Jody Black; his grandsons, Bryan Black and Jason Sample; his granddaughter, Natalie Zeak; and his great-grandchildren, Cody, Jazmyn, Josh, and Jesse. He is also survived by his family members in Idaho and Oregon

He is now at peace with his beautiful daughter, Cindy, and his wife, Marlene. God bless you. You will be missed.

Private family interment will take place at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery. Duggan Dolan Mortuary has been entrusted with arrangements.