Samuel David Gooden
November 19, 2010
Samuel David Gooden, 68, passed away at home on November 19, 2010. Sam was born on March 4, 1942 in Burlington, Iowa. He was the youngest of eight children. After serving in the National Guard, Sam became a realtor. He served the Des Moines area for twenty-five years before retiring in 1997. In 1982, he married Rita Gooden. Together they shared twenty-eight wonderful years.
Sam was a kind and loving individual who cared deeply about people and animals. He was very compassionate and always sought to make those around him laugh and feel comfortable. Sam loved listening to music, telling a great joke and traveling with Rita.
The essence of Sam’s character is best illustrated by these kind words from a colleague who was a speaker at a conference Sam attended.
“Sam will ALWAYS hold a very special place in my heart. When I started my talk, there was a joyful man sitting right in the front row. He kept looking at me the entire time with a HUGE smile of encouragement written all over his face. He got me through my speech. I had no idea who he was until after my talk. It was Sam. What a wonderful person to be joined in the glory of heaven!”
Sam will be greatly missed by his wife of 28 years, Rita; sons, Brian (Amy) Gooden, Steve (Annette) Jensen; step-children, Debra (Terry) Semmens, Ronald (Tammi) Miller, Deanna (Matt) Gliem, and Donna Miller; fourteen grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; his sister, Vonnie Mellow, and many friends. He was preceded by his parents, four brothers and two sisters.
Sam was a great husband, father, grandfather and friend and we will miss him dearly.
Online condolences may be made at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Denise
11/25/2010
I am so sorry for your loss. Please except my sincerest condolences. You can always lean upon God in the heavens to give you strength and support. (Psalms 55:22; John 5:28, 29)
LeRoy (Vic) Kamber
11/23/2010
Hi Reta,
Sam and me grew up together from around 9 or 10 years old. We just moved to 757 18th St. I really did not want to move but I had to go with my parents. I remember looking out the window on the first day and saw Sam playing. I knew him from elementary school. Right away it made me feel better. I Have a lot of great boyhood memories with sam we did a lot together. Rita we meant a few times once when you and Sam were in Phoenix. Really sorry for your loss.
Leanna Barber
11/23/2010
Rita-my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.
May God wrap you in his arms and keep you safe.
Leanna (Annette's mom)
Teri Mabon
11/21/2010
Aunt Rita, my deepest sympathy on your loss. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. Do not hesitate, if there is anything I can do for you. Love and hugs from Barry and I.
Rachelle Bixler
11/21/2010
Rita,
I Am So Sorry For your Loss, Sam Was a Wonderful Person That Loved Life
he Will be Dearly Missed! My Mother Sandy also Sends Her Deepest Sympathy.
Rachelle