Samuel "Sam" Charles Hess

Samuel Charles "Sam" Hess, 80, of Peoria, IL, passed away peacefully at the Richard Owens Hospice Center, surrounded by his loved ones, on September 21, 2023 at 3:30pm. Sam was born on March 2, 1943, in Peoria, IL, to Alfred R Hess Sr and Marguerite "Maggie" Hittle. His journey through life was one marked by dedication, adventure, and a love for the open road. Sam's career in trucking began at the age of 12 when delivering glass bottles for the Pabst Blue Ribbon Co. This early start laid the foundation for a lifelong passion for trucking, spanning 62 years. His final years were spent working with his grandson, Chad French, owner of Chuck's Towing, where he was affectionately known as "Grandpa" by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Beyond his career, Sam was a larger-than-life figure within the biker community. He proudly served as the past president of the Voltars Motorcycle Club and was an active member of Lincoln Land Customs. Sam and his brothers shared a passion for customizing and building motorcycles, as well as, admittedly, "raising a little hell." Sam could often be found tinkering with old cars and semis, always ready to lend a hand, a tool, or his vast reservoir of knowledge. He loved attending car shows and had an innate ability to turn strangers into friends. Sam was, without a doubt, a people person and held a special place in the hearts of many. Sam married the love of his life, Sharon Kay Mohn, on December 30, 1978. Together they embarked on a journey filled with love and companionship. Sharon preceded him in death on April 8, 2022. Sam is survived by his seven children: Cheri (Ray) Caudill, Patience Hess, Samuel Jr (Mary Jo) Hess, Tracey (Mike) Peak, Troy (Cindy) French, Toni (Todd) Robinson, and Damien (Shawna) Melloy. He is also survived by 19 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. Sam leaves behind seven beloved siblings: Rich Hess, Ruthie Houlihan, Dave Hittle, Cindy Waters, Tony Hittle, Pam Weber, and Cheryl Hess. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Sharon, two sisters Donna Barton and Shirley Dunham, two brothers Bud Hess and James Hittle, one nephew Ritchie Hess, and one grandson Guy Ragel. Samuel Charles "Sam" Hess will be fondly remembered as a generous soul who touched the lives of countless people throughout his remarkable journey. You will live forever in our hearts and memories Dad, Grandpa, Sam. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Heart of Illinois Downs Syndrome Foundation in memory of Sam Hess.

Samuel "Sam" Charles Hess

March 2, 1943 - September 21, 2023