Samuel Wayne Clevenger, 73

Samuel Wayne Clevenger, 73, passed away at home on Nov. 29, 2015, in Post Falls, Idaho, just two weeks after receiving a diagnosis of end stage pancreatic cancer. He was born in Bucklin, Kan., on Dec. 6, 1941, to Samuel and Lora (Hornish) Clevenger, graduating from high school there before leaving the farm for Los Angeles.

He married Janice Negaard in 1962 and the couple moved to Post Falls in 1965 to raise their family and start a business. Clevenger Construction built many of the homes in Post Falls at that time. A life member of the Post Falls Chamber of Commerce, he built the former Chamber of Commerce building on I-90 that now houses Parks and Recreation Department classes.

Sam had a love of gold prospecting, hunting, cars, motorcycles and gunsmithing, He was world ranked in trap and skeet and ranked 17th in the nation for hanging handgun competition. His love of reading and learning was evident in the thousands of books in his personal library. Nothing made him happier than roasting a hot dog by a nice campfire with family or friends at Eagle Creek.

Sam was a founding member of the Post Falls Community Volunteers and manned the grill at every community event since the 1990s. Sam also served on the Post Falls Parade Committee for 25 years.

Since 1995, Sam kept a second home in Lake Havasu City, Ariz., where he enjoyed friends and desert activities. He was preparing to leave for the winter when the illness was discovered.

Sam was preceded in death by his wife, Janice, in 2007; his parents and sister, Niki Ann. He is survived by son Shawn Clevenger (Charlotte) of North Bend, Wash.; daughter Joni Clevenger of Coeur d’Alene; grandson Ryan Gole; siblings Lyn Clevenger and Connie Elliott; countless nieces and nephews; and so many dear friends.

A celebration of his life will be held this summer when both his North Idaho and Lake Havasu families are able to attend. Please sign and view Sam’s online memorial at www.englishfuneralchapel.com.