Richard Michael Samek

Richard Michael Samek of Matamoras died peacefully at home on Friday, Aug. 25, 2017. He was 66 years old.
He was born Feb. 22, 1951 in Johnson City, N.Y., the son of the late Francis Samek and the late Leola Howard Samek.
Richard was an elementary school teacher at the A.S.K. Elementary School in Port Jervis for 42 years, retiring in 2013
He was a member of Grace Episcopal Church, Port Jervis.
A family statement read, "Richard was a thoughtful, hardworking, generous, and loving father. Richard’s teaching legacy was evident by the many appreciations sent by former students. God’s Grace was enhanced towards the end of his life, bringing him into more conformity to the image of Jesus Christ. Through his struggle with ALS, he held fast to the Word of God, particularly the Psalms. His life is a testimony of God’s grace.
Surviving are his wife Donna Samek of Matamoras; sons Mark C. Samek of New Paltz, N.Y., and Jon-Michael Samek of Matamoras; daughter Mary Grace Casabona and her husband Anthony, II of Bel Air, Maryland; granddaughter Natalie Casabona; sister Jacalyn Kresge and her husband Douglas of Binghamton, N.Y.; brother-in-law James Whipperman of Escolante, Utah; also several nieces and nephews
A memorial visitation will be held at Grace Fellowship, 25 Sullivan Ave., Port Jervis on Tuesday, Aug. 29, from 1 to 2 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 2 p.m. with Pastor Tom Mortenson officiating.
Cremation was at MacLennan Hall Crematorium, Milford.
Memorial contributions may be made to Grace Fellowship, 25 Sullivan Ave., Port Jervis, NY 12771 or to The ALS Association, PO Box 37022, Boone, IA 50037-0022
Funeral arrangements are by the Gray-Parker Funeral Home, 100 E. Main St., Port Jervis.
For additional information, directions or to send a condolence note to the family visit www.grayparkerfuneralhome.com.