Samuel Robert Haster, age 79 of Ellsworth, died Sept. 21, 2023 at his residence. Samuel was born on June 6, 1944 in Red Wing, Minn., the son of Robert and Janet (Wurtz) Haster.

Following graduation from Ellsworth High School, he enlisted in the Armed Forces and served in the United States Navy from 1964 to 1968 during the Vietnam War. He held great pride for his country and his service.

Sam was a simple man who appreciated his close family and friends. It took a little bit to crack his outer shell, but once you did you had a dedicated friend for life. One who not only broke that shell, but his heart was Margaret “Peg” Dougherty. Being a bachelor a good share of his life, he fell in love with Peg and the two were married on Nov. 7, 1987.

Sam farmed for many years which he enjoyed and was no stranger to hard work. At the same time, he enjoyed the tranquility of driving trucks as he owned and operated his own company.

Sam is survived by stepdaughter Julie (Bret) Smith, granddaughter Madeline Smith, brother Dan (Lola) Haster, sisters Jane (Mike) Connor and Jean Haster, and many nieces and nephews, as well as his “adopted son” Gregg “Breeze” Langer.

Sam is preceded in death by his parents; wife Peg Haster on Oct. 23, 2012; and nephew Adam Haster on Sept. 20, 2015.

To honor Sam’s quiet nature, he will have a private interment at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis with full military honors. Memorials may be directed to O’Connells. Funeral services have been entrusted to the O’Connell Family Funeral Home, 130 N. Grant St., Ellsworth, Wisconsin 54011.