Marvin Lee Samuelson

He left this world early on the morning of Dec. 28th, 2025 at his residence in Rogers, AR. He was 94 years old.

Sam was born July 25th in Oketo, Kansas to Eben Samuelson and Mabel Brown. He grew up on an 80-acre farm, where he learned how to work hard and rise early. The interest he developed in livestock growing up was one that would stay with him: Sam studied veterinary medicine at Kansas State University, graduating with honors to launch a career as a veterinarian that would span private practice, military service and academia.

Sam loved his family, and he cultivated a big one over the years.

His third wife Rubye passed away in 2019. Sam loved her dearly and missed her often. He was also preceded in death by his son Scott and daughter Melanie.

He is survived by his daughters Valorie Cameron and Vonna Ault, and his stepchildren John Scott Samuelson, Jennifer Stallbaumer and Phil Rittgers. He has a host of grandchildren, three great grandchildren, as well as his dear friend Stella Myers.

Sam would want people to know that he was a man of faith, and of belief. He would want people to know he was a lifelong learner. He believed God had a plan for everyone. He loved his job and his craft, he loved his family and his friends, he loved to read and to teach. He had an exceptional memory till the end: he was able to recite the resumes of people he hadn’t seen in years, a skill he cultivated in academia and sharpened in every conversation he had. The people of Primrose Retirement Community, where Sam lived his last years, would tell you he was able to make anyone feel seen and listened to.

If you would like to join us in celebrating the life Sam led, his memorial service will be held at 10:00 AM Jan. 8th, 2026 at the First United Methodist Church in Downtown Rogers. Memorials may be made to Kansas State University scholarship “Dr. Sam” fund, or the First United Methodist Church.