Obituaries
S. Gunter Samuelsen
April 13, 2021
Gunter Samuelsen passed away peacefully April 13, 2021 at Luther Acres in Lititz, PA. He was born October 23, 1933 in Hartford, CT. His parents were the late Andreas and Marie (Stein) Samuelsen, who immigrated to this country from Norway. On August 25, 1962 he married Marlene Wasser Samuelsen, in Fredonia, PA. Their married life was spent on Long Island, NY until moving to Luther Acres 13 years ago.
He loved his family and their needs were in the forefront of his decisions. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Marlene, who was his caregiver for the past 25 years. His son, Andrew and his wife Kelly and their children, Kai and Brayden of Oley survive as well as his son Eric Samuelsen of Stewartstown. His sister Augusta Cosich of Manhattan, NY, a cousin, Augusta Nygard of Denver, CO, as well as many relatives in Norway also survive.
He graduated from Central Islip High School on Long Island. At age 19 he was drafted during the Korean Conflict and served from 1953 to 1955. Thanks to the GI Bill, he attended Albany State College for Teachers, where he received a Bachelor’s Degree in business with emphasis in accounting as well as a Master’s Degree. He taught at Suffolk County Community College for 30 years until a brain stem stroke forced him into retirement.
A man of deep faith… he enjoyed bible study and was a charter member of Lutheran Men in Mission, serving on the local, synodical, and national boards. He was presently a member of Brickerville United Lutheran Church and for more than 30 years was a member of Lutheran Church of Our Savior in Patchogue, NY. In both churches, he served wherever he was needed.
In the community, he served on the Board of Directors of the Teachers Federal Credit Union. He loved to read and his morning ritual included reading the local paper followed by books of many genres. Golfing with his friends and sons was high on his list of interests as well as socializing with friends and relatives. He played a fierce game of pinochle. Many summers were enjoyed at the family retreat in Fredonia, PA.
To protect our friends from COVID-19, there will be no public funeral at this time, with hopes to have a life celebration in the future. Interment will be at the Delaware Cemetery, Fredonia, PA at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the following organizations: Lutheran Men in Mission, ELCA at 8765 West Higgins Rd., Chicago, IL 60631 or Luthercare Caring Fund at 600 E. Main St., Lititz, PA 17543. Arrangements by Spacht-Snyder Family Funeral Home, 127 S. Broad St., Lititz, PA 17543, 717-626-2317.
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Condolences to the Family
April 22, 2021
Dear Marlende with family. It is with great sadness that we received the message of Sam’s passing. Stien family in Norway/Asker will remember Sam as a fine family member, from whom we have only good memories. Our warm thoughts go to you Marlene, the boys and other family. Take care of each other. Sincerely, Dag on behalf of Guttorm, Gerd, Jan, Anne, Torkild, Tom and the rest of our big family.
Dag Leween Stien
April 21, 2021
April 21, 2021
Our deepest condolences to all the family, and especially to you, Marlene, who has been our closest contact to our family in USA.
I had just arrived in USA as a nineteen year old girl in August 1962 when I was invited to your wedding in Pennsylvania. This was my first opportunity to meet my family in America. It was overwhelming – and wonderful! Later on I was lucky to visit you and Sam’s new home on Long Island. I have very nice memories from the beautiful place by the seaside.
After my year in the US I have enjoyed news about the family through your letters, cards, pictures and e-mails. We enjoyed your latest visit to Norway, and still remember Sam’s warm smile and our interesting talks around the table with our family at our home in Sandnes.
Sincerely, Marit and Torgeir, Sandnes, Norway
April 21, 2021
I Will always remember the good time with you in Norway and specially on the Island in the house your father was born Gjessøya! Hugs from Anne in Risør
April 20, 2021
April 20, 2021
I would like to extend my sincere sympathy to the entire Samuelsen family. Sam was not only my teacher at Half Hollow Hills H.S. on Long Island, but a wonderful colleague and friend at SCCC from 1980 till his retirement. It was a pleasure and an honor learning and teaching with this kind, caring, loving family man. With very best regards and prayers, Dee Laffin, Blue Point, LI, NY
April 19, 2021
I want to express my heartfelt sympathy and condolences to the entire Samuelsen family. In the mid 1980’s, I transferred from SCCC’s East Campus to Selden and was assigned to office #335 in the Riverhead Building – Sam’s office. There, I was fortunate to get to know Sam as a colleague, as a friend and as a most wonderful mentor. He was a man of faith and principle – I will remember him always. At this painful time, I pray that you find comfort in your memories of this remarkable man.
Robert Rovegno
April 17, 2021
Sam was a good man and a wonderful neighbor!
He left me with interesting and fun memories of our
neighborly visits prior to Covid!
Carole E. Fredericks
April 17, 2021
Dear family, Sam was a strong, smart, Christian man. God has now taken him home. jean and Cy send you love and sympathy.
Jean wolverton
