June Ann Sam, age 80 of Manistee, Michigan died Thursday night. January 22, 2015, at her home surrounded by her loving family.
She was born on June 8, 1934 on Northville, Michigan and was the daughter of the late Philo and Edith (Brown) Forshee. June married Jonnie J. Sam on October 7, 1950 in Manistee, Michigan. Jonnie preceded her in death on August 2, 2001.
June dedicated her life to the service of others, beginning by being the record keeper for the Thornapple Band of Ottawa Indians. Her record keeping was instrumental in the Federal recognition of the current Little River Band of Ottawa Indians.
June also served as the Stronach Township Clerk for three terms. As a public official she was open to helping the people whenever they needed her, serving selflessly throughout her terms.
June eventually returned to serving the people she loved, her family and friends of the Little River Band, as the Elders Co-Coordinator. She retired from this position after fourteen years, but continued to touch the lives of those around her until she passed surrounded by her loving family.
June is survived by two daughters and sons in-law; Jessica and Fred Burger and Janine Sam and Brian Bower and by two sons; Jonnie Sam and Jeffrey Sam all of Manistee, MI, twelve grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Numerous nieces and nephews also survive her.
She was also preceded in death by an infant son; Joseph Sam and by two sisters; Zella Staff and Virginia Bishop and by two brothers; Gilbert Forshee and William Forshee.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, January 27, 2015 at 1:00 PM at the Herbert Funeral Home in Manistee with Pastor Bill Willis officiating. Burial will take place in the spring of 2015 at the Corfu Cemetery in Dickson Township, Michigan. The family will receive friends at the Herbert Funeral Home on Tuesday one hour prior to June's funeral service.
The Herbert Funeral Home of Manistee is in charge of funeral arrangements.