Samuel Evans Burt, 70

Samuel Evans Burt peacefully passed on Nov 10, 2025, while at home in Trout Creek, MT, after a 70-year adventure on God's green Earth.

His journey began one Christmas Eve back in 1954, when he was born to James and Mary Delores "Dolly" Burt of Whitehall, MT. After joining older brothers Jimmy Joe and Tom, their family continued to grow with the addition of younger siblings Bob, Debbie, and Kathy.

Sam's childhood closely mirrored those of a typical small-town American boy of ages gone by...think 4-H projects and Boy Scouts, think Little League baseball and paper routes, riding horses and ditching school for a fishing pole and a breath of fresh air...think high school sports and developing a strong work ethic through working part-time jobs. Sam excelled in the thespian club and performing in front of an audience, which led him to sing at weddings, funerals, and various social occasions regularly.

Sam initially wanted to pursue a career in oceanography, but took the second closest path and became a journeyman lineman instead. Following in the footsteps of his grandfather, his father, an uncle, cousins, and his older brother, Sam's time working at various Rural Electric Administrations spanned 41 years and five co-ops across three states. Each new job and location only added color to the adventure and further enriched his family's experience. From ice storms and steelhead fishing in north-central Oregon to skiing and snowmobiling in Jackson, Wyoming - from Montana's eastern sugar beet fields to its western river valleys, one constant remained...a committed husband and loving father focused on his family.

After celebrating over 50 years of marriage, Sam is survived by his wife and high school sweetheart, Teri, his four children, Samuel Tyler (Heather), Benjamin, Lucas (Heather), and Brienne (Henry), as well as his eleven grandchildren. He is also survived by a myriad of other family members, including his siblings and their spouses, Teri's siblings and spouses, many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Being a man of immense faith, a Requiem Mass will be held for Sam at St. William Catholic Church in Thompson Falls on January 17, 202,6 at 1 PM, followed by a Celebration of Life and potluck at the Lakeside Motel & Resort conference room in Trout Creek at 4 PM. Sam's earthly body has been cremated, and his ashes will find a tranquil resting place up in the South Boulder this coming July.

Some will remember Sam for his unwavering faith, his commitment to community, and his "work smarter, not harder" mentality. Others will remember him as an avid outdoorsman who thrived while hunting, hiking, and particularly fishing. Regardless, memories of him will forever evoke thoughts of an infectious smile, a positive attitude, and a friendly persona. Most of all, Sam will simply be remembered for his love – his love for the Lord, his love for his wife and dearest companion, his love for his family, and his love for his fellow man.