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Billings Montana – Samuel Peterson. On November 7, 2024, Sam won his brief battle with cancer. A true Montana outdoorsman with an unwavering work ethic, Sam’s life was a testament to perseverance, loyalty, and the joy of living life on his own terms.
Born in Cutbank, Montana, the Flathead Valley eventually became Sam’s home. Holiday gatherings were cherished times spent with family, accompanied by spirited card games and laughter. Other fond memories include the many family hunting and fishing trips with special moments such as Sam’s first successful elk hunt with his brother and catching steelhead in Idaho.
After working at Weyerhaeuser Lumber Mill in Colombia Falls for many years, in 2011, Sam earned his associate’s degree in Diesel Technology from the University of Montana; he was very proud of this accomplishment. Given Sam’s enthusiasm for anything with a motor, his shift in careers made perfect sense. Ultimately, Sam and his companion in life, Veronica Brandewie, moved to Williston, North Dakota, where he worked with dedication and pride as the Lead Mechanic for Noble Casing. His expertise and integrity were highly valued by his work family at Noble Casing who became Sam’s treasured friends.
Sam’s work ethic was matched only by his love for the outdoors. In addition to hunting and fishing, he loved picking huckleberries and simply driving mountain roads always on the lookout for wildlife. Being outdoors gave him peace. Though Sam was an avid outdoorsman, he also had a lighter side and in recent years, enjoyed trips to Las Vegas. Whether it was to catch a show, try his luck with the slot machines, or take in the lights and excitement of the city, Sam looked forward to pasta dinners and kicking back by the pool with Veronica. Together, they built a life Sam was proud of and had plans for new adventures.
He showed true courage in his final months and left us too soon. He will be sorely missed but will be forever in our hearts. Sam will be remembered for his strength, kindness, and his zest for life. His legacy will live in the mountains he loved and the countless lives he touched with his positive, can-do spirit and humor.
A celebration of life will take place in July 2025. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to your local Humane Society in honor of Sam’s love for his dogs, cats, and animals in need.
