Sam Avalos, Sr.
March 28, 1924 – October 20, 2015
Samuel Adolf Avalos, Sr. was raised in Trinidad, Colorado. He grew up during the Great Depression when Americans survived by helping each other. Sam joined the U.S. Military during WWII where he served in the 916th Army Infantry and Artillery Regimen with deployments to N. Africa and Europe.
Sam married Giovianna Internicola (Diane). They had three children: Nicholas, Sam Jr., Diane Jr., and resided in Colorado Springs. Sam worked for the City of Colorado Springs Gas Department until his retirement. He was a member of the VFW Post 4051, Army Color Guard.
The Avalos home provided temporary housing for area children throughout the 1960s and early 70s. Sam and his wife Diane held weekly bible studies where Sam Sr. was known for his pizza and caramel apples enjoyed by the kids afterwards.
Sam relocated to Boulder, Colorado in 2011, residing at Manor Care Nursing Home to be close to his son Nick. He spent his last years visiting with family and friends, exploring the countryside and mountains of Boulder County and enjoying Bronco games. Sam was an avid storyteller, maintained a keen sense of humor and fostered a gentle nature of simple kindness.
Sam Sr. is survived by his son Nick and partner Shelley; Diane Jr. of Seoul, Korea and husband Richard Davis; and granddaughter Elizabeth attending SFA Texas University. Elizabeth will hold a memorial service for her grandfather at her sorority.
Sam was honored to be of service to his country, loved his family, his home in Colorado Springs and was proud to be an American.
Services will be held at the Shrine of Remembrance “America the Beautiful” Chapel, 1730 E. Fountain Blvd., Colorado Springs on Saturday, October 31st. Viewing: 1:00, Funeral: 2:00.