Samuel HarryKIRKHAM‘Samuel Harry Kirkham ‘Sam’ of Church and formerly of Great Harwood and Knuzden, passed away peacefully in hospital surrounded by his loving family on November 19, aged 92 years.
The devoted husband of the late Joan, loving dad of the late Annette, father-in-law of Colin, cherished grandad of Deborah and Paul, loved great-grandad of Philippa and Rebekah, uncle of Gaynor and Denise and a loved relative and friend. Sam began his working life, starting as a farm labourer before finding his true calling on the open road. He trained as a wagon driver and spent many years behind the wheel at A.M. Bracewell and Ribble Valley Borough Council. Sam truly loved the freedom that driving gave him, cherishing the quiet moments on the road and the chance to explore new places. His passion for driving spilled over into his family life, as he eagerly took the family out for drives, always making these outings special with a meal together. A true motor enthusiast, Sam had a lifelong admiration for Morris Motors. He spent countless hours tinkering and restoring his beloved vehicles, with his pride and joy being a 1938 Morris 8. For Sam, these cars were more than machines—they were works of art and a reflection of his dedication and skill. Holidays were another of Sam’s great joys, and he eagerly awaited annual trips to Blackpool and Llandudno, among other cherished destinations across the UK. These getaways were filled with laughter, relaxation, and precious memories made with those he loved. In his later years, Sam discovered a new passion with sequence dancing. Alongside his beloved wife, Joan, he embraced the music, making many new friends through the dance floor. Those evenings spent dancing were filled with happiness, companionship, and the simple joy of sharing life’s moments together. Sam’s love for life, his family, and his passions made him a man deeply admired and loved by all who knew him. He will be fondly remembered for his adventurous spirit, his devotion to the things he cared about, and the warmth he brought to every journey—whether on the road, in the garage, or on the dance floor. Sam’s funeral service will be held at Accrington Crematorium, Burnley Road, Accrington BB5 6HA on Monday, December 9 at 11.40am. All enquiries to Champ Funeral Services : 01254390731 E: [email protected] Donations in lieu of flowers are requested in memory of Sam on behalf of East Lancashire Hospice. To make a donation, please visit www. champfunerals.com or send to the funeral home.
