Sam J Junk Jr.

Born in Ogden, Utah, Sam graduated from Ogden High School in 1957 before attending Weber State College and earning a marketing degree from the University of Utah. Sam married Marilyn Edgar, and later divorced.

He built a distinguished career in pharmaceuticals, culminating in an executive role with Novartis, with his travels taking him across the country and frequently to Hawaii.

Sam married Grace Dick 41 years ago on June 8, 1985, in the Catholic Church. Together they called Cupertino, Scottsdale, and finally Del Mar their home for over three decades before returning to Layton Utah to be closer to family.

A devoted community servant, Sam gave more than 30 years to the Optimist Club serving multiple terms as North Coast chapter president and in district leadership roles. Sam was also longstanding member of the Knights of Columbus. He was an avid golfer who also enjoyed tennis, Sam loved to travel and was happiest on the open road, often behind the wheel of his Corvette. Sam also enjoyed walking on the beach in Del Mar, summer school for all of his grandkids with his flip board, and had previously coached his kids Jr. basketball team, leading them to a city championship.

Sam lived with a contagious smile and an unshakeable positive attitude, and his kindness, generosity, and loving spirit left a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He remained caring and full of warmth right up to his final days.

Sam is survived by his wife, Grace; his children Mike Junk (Kathy), Jill Smith, and Julie Ferreira (Brad); his stepchildren Steve Dickson (Julie), Keith Dickson (Carrie), and Pamela Renee; his sister Jeannine Moyle; his brother Bill Junk (Jan); 15 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Layton, Utah, followed by a luncheon. All friends and family are welcome to attend the luncheon. A celebration of life will be held at Abbington Sr. Living Layton (Great Room) Wednesday June 10th at 6:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial donations to CurePSP, an organization dedicated to research and support for progressive supranuclear palsy and related brain diseases, at www.psp.org.