Sam Cushing Obituary, Death – Chester Samuel Cushing III Remembered for a Life of Service and Family

Chester Samuel “Sam” Cushing III, a longtime California resident known to family and friends simply as Sam, died peacefully on January 1, 2026. He was 89 years old.

Born March 22, 1936, in Salt Lake City, Utah, Sam was the son of Chester Samuel Cushing II and Lela Birdie Cutler Cushing. He grew up in Salem, Oregon, where he remained connected to his family and community throughout his early years.

After high school, Sam attended Brigham Young University for one year before enlisting in the United States Army. During his military service, he was stationed in La Cañada, California, where he served at a Nike Air Missile base.

Remembering Sam Cushing

Following his military service, Sam began a long career in public utilities. He started working for the Turlock Irrigation District as a ditch tender before becoming a lineman and later a dispatcher.

He eventually transferred to the Modesto Irrigation District, where he continued working as a dispatcher until his retirement. His career reflected decades of steady work and service in California’s public utility sector.

Outside of work, Sam had a deep appreciation for reading and writing. He was especially proud of having his work published several times in Sporting Classics Magazine.

He also enjoyed fishing, walking along the canal, hiking in Pinecrest and spending time caring for his yard. His lawn was a particular source of pride, and he was known for maintaining it faithfully with a push mower.

Those close to Sam remembered his quiet personality and gentle sense of humor. Although soft-spoken, he was known for speaking sincerely and from the heart.

Family and Faith

Faith was another important part of Sam’s life. He was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As a young man, he and his family were involved in organizing the first branch of the church in Salem, Oregon.

Sam was married to his beloved wife, Dorene Barbara Sadler Cushing, for 69 years. He is survived by Dorene; his children, Kym Cushing, Mark Cushing and Cheri Cushing Starkey; his sister, Lela Marie Cushing; seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Funeral Arrangements

According to his published obituary, Sam requested that no funeral or memorial services be held.

His family remembers him as a deeply loved husband, father, grandfather and friend whose quiet nature, humor, interests and devotion to those closest to him left a lasting impression.

Chester Samuel “Sam” Cushing III will be remembered by his family and loved ones for the life he shared with them, his years of service, his appreciation for the outdoors and writing, and the many memories he leaves behind.