Samuel James Northway

Samuel James Northway passed away Thursday, October 5, 2017. Private graveside services will be held at Highland Cemetery, Ottawa. Sam was born March 13, 1926 in Lone Elm, Kansas, to Samuel Otto and Alice (Thompson) Northway. He had three siblings, Estel, Ardith and Doris. Sam attended Ottawa schools and graduated from San Diego High School, San Diego, California in 1944. He joined the Navy and served on the Destroyer USS Beatty DD 756 to the end of WWII. He went to work for the Air Force as an aircraft electrician, later joining the Air Force Reserves, retiring in 1985. He married Joan “Jo” Jean Finch June 25, 1946, his high school sweetheart. They had two daughters, Alice Jean and Judith Arlene. They enjoyed a happy life, living in both California and Kansas. Sam is survived by his wife, Jo; daughters, Jeanie and Judy; three grandchildren, Liam, Luke and Laura; and three great grandchildren, Will, Sammy and Andy. He was always interested in airplanes. Sam’s greatest joy was his love of family and their time spent together. The family suggests memorial contributions to Prairie Paws Animal Shelter c/o Dengel & Son Mortuary, 235 S. Hickory, Ottawa, Kansas 66067. Family and friends are encouraged to post their condolences and memories on Sam’s Tribute Wall at www.dengelmortuary.com