March 10, 2014

We knew Sam in Hershey Heritage Village in Lancaster,Pa. I was a WW2 nut and would listen to Sam’s stories and look with great interest at his pics of his plane,Flak Man, and his crew. Sam was a great caregiver to his wife,Meg and to me and my wife’ Carol when we got the Asian Flu back in January of 2000! I did the artwork for a letterhead with “Flak Man” as rhe title so he could communicate with a Tuskeege Airman living in California. We’ve been trying to find Sam since we moved from Lancaster to Grove City,Pa.in 2006.Just tonight, March 10, I found out about Sam’s passing and wish to offer our condolences to his family. My e-mail is robertburke659@yahoo.com 

Dear Russell, Sammy, Maribeth, and Maryann

I was very sorry to here of the passing of your Dad. He was a great person. A smile comes to me as I remember all the good times we all had as kids. Boy could your father tell a story. Please give my condolences to the entire family. I would like to attend the service this summer. Please send details.

Your friend,
Bruce Reynolds ( hreynolds@hvc.rr.com )

We were very sorry to read about your Dad.  We know how difficult this is to lose a loved one.
Your Dad was always someone that we enjoyed talking to when he came into our office.  We missed his visits once he lost Ginger. 
Our thoughts are with you.  Take care.
The Staff of West Lancaster Animal Hospital

To Sammy, Maribeth, Russell, and Maryann,
My mother,Florence Wells Sharkey, was a close friend of your father in high school, and in the Monticello community. You will also recall, we also became neighbors in the late 50’s and 60’s. My mother and your Dad exchanged letters, phone calls, and visits on a number of occasions after he moved to Pennsylvania. I’m sorry to learn of your loss as he was a fine man in many ways.
Alfred Wells

We remember Sam and Meg well! They were great neighbors in Willow Street. Sam was always full of conversation, and curiosity. He shared all his WWII experiences and educated us about the Army air corps, and the roll of the Tuskegee Airmen in saving his life.  Sam was master carpenter.  I remember one time we were going to build these fabulous birdhouses -until his dog ate the plans! Sam had many accomplishments during his life, but his proudest was seeing that all his children became highly educated. 
Eric and I extend our condolences to all of you.
Suzanne and Eric McClellan

TO the Handsman children,
We are so sorry to hear of your father’s death.  He was a wonderful part of our old community in Monticello.  We write this note of condolence especially for our mother who grew up with your dad and always thought highly of him. Regretfully she is unable to send a note herself but please know you are in our prayers.
Marge Smith & family
Michael, Casey, Judy & Virginia

Dear Handsmans,

I remember you all well and your father was such a gracious man. I am sorry for your loss.

Jan S. Van Etten

To Sammy, Maribeth, Russell, and Maryann,

I am so sorry for the loss of your dad.  I have thought of him often over the years.  He was truly a great individual!  Sam always was helping someone and was a true gentleman.  He made such a difference in my life, driving me home after sharing your home and family for a day, or weekend.  Sam taught me how to swim, gave me a lesson on planets vs. stars,that it was impossible to love an inanimate object (i.e. a new dress), etc., and was a teacher of life.  Thank you for sharing him with me!

Love,
Candy Buckman Abdoo

Mr Handsman was such a sweetheart! i enjoyed caring for him! he was always so polite! I know we will miss him!!! RIP

Dear Sam & KIm
I read with regrets in todays paper about the passing of your father.
Martha & I would like to express our condolences on his death.
We haven’t seen each other in a long time but the name certainly popped out in my memory.
We hope everything is well with you & your family.
We’re still at the same place so if you’re in the area stop & see us.
Love.
Ron & Martha