Samuel D. Decker

Samuel Dennis Decker, 73, passed away Friday, April 3, 2020 at University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City, Iowa. Sam was born on September 16, 1946 in Des Moines, Iowa to Samuel and Wilma (Cole) Decker.

Sam “Denny” Decker was one of the kindest, most thoughtful men you could meet. He was a loving son, an amazing brother, a devoted father and grandfather, a patriot, a National Guard soldier, and a proud Marine having served as a Crew Chief on an SAR Helicopter Crew in Vietnam.

While Sam’s children were growing up he was their softball and basketball coach. He would support any sport or activity his kids were involved with including softball, baseball, basketball, golf, and even soccer – which by his own admission he didn’t know much about!

Sam was a very active parent rarely missing a game, tournament, recital, or graduation of any of his daughters. He continued that legacy with his grandchildren and attended as many events as he could and watching videos when he couldn’t. “Not too shabby”, as he would say, since he ended up with 6 daughters and 8 grandchildren.

He always gave of himself and will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Sam is survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Patricia (Decker) Hill and Jack Hill; children, Monica (Decker) Blakely and Mike Blakely, Denise Decker, Rachel Decker, Annie Brooker, Becky Brooker and Alexander Kharbush; nephew, Ryan Hill; niece, Megan (Hill) Richardson; grandchildren, Andrew Ballesteros, Grace Ballesteros, Jay Combs, Darius Combs, Tiah Combs, Tayah Combs, Samuel Blakely and Josephine Blakely; dog, Ace; as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilma (Cole) Decker and Samuel Edward Decker, wife Katherine Decker and step-daughter Katie Brooker.

There will be a graveside service on Friday, July 24, 20209 at Glendale Cemetery, 4909 University Avenue, Des Moines at 11:00 a.m. Online condolences can be left at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers please make donations to reputable veterans’ organizations, like Sheep Dog Impact Assistance.

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