W. Samuel "Sam" Bjorkman III, 81, of Rock Island, passed away on Thursday, December 22, 2022 at his home.

Private Celebration of Life services will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Rock Island Public Library. Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, Rock Island is assisting the family.

Samuel was born on April 1, 1941 in Geneseo, the son of W. Samuel Bjorkman II and Ruth (Burgeson) Bjorkman. Sam was a graduate of Rock Island High School. He married Susan Clain in 1965, with whom he had 3 wonderful children.

He had been employed with the United States Postal Service and later went to work for the US Corp of Engineers on the Rock Island Arsenal, retiring in 2001.

Sam loved reading and had a great appreciation for eclectic artwork.

Survivors include his children, Andrew Bjorkman and Sarah Bjorkman as well as extended family and long time friends.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of over 50 years, Susan; son, David Bjorkman; parents, W. Samuel and Ruth Bjorkman II and brother, James Bjorkman.

The family would like to thank the Unity Point Hospice Team (an extra thank you to "Awesome" Andy, "Spicy" Spiker and "Baby" Binder), for all their support and care during this journey.

Online condolences may be left for the family at wheelanpressly.com.