Richard Alexander “Sam” Birchall was born October 30, 1949 to Laura & Ed (HoHo the Clown) Birchall. He died suddenly and quietly at home Sunday, August 4, 2019.
Though named for two grandfathers he was known as Sam throughout his life. He was the 3rd of 6 children. Upon graduation from Putnam City HS in 1968 he enlisted in the Army completing two tours of duty in Vietnam where he received the Bronze Star.
Sam’s deepest secret was attending OSU majoring in History/Economics. He also obtained a teaching certificate from UCO. He married Janet Schwab in 1972. They had three daughters. His work career included retail, horticulture, educator and business owner. He was currently employed at OMRF.
Sam was a lifelong OU fan continuing to bemoan the ‘56 loss to Notre Dame which he witnessed as a 7 year old. He loved any sport with a ball. His grasp of details was as sharp identifying horticultural pests as analyzing battlefields. He was an avid traveler and voracious reader.
Whether in sports or music his most gratifying experience was to watch his daughters play. Sam was a gentle and tender caretaker to his mother and quick to help others in need.
He is survived by wife of 5 years Carol, daughters; Cathie, Stephanie & Ann, step-sons; Jerry & John (Richelle) McKinley, sisters/brother-in-law Marian Smith, Jane Bryson & Richard (Olga) Stone, siblings; Bill (Patti), Michael, Regina, Dan (Sami) & Charmagne, 16 nieces and nephews, 15 great-nieces and nephews, BFAM Will (Debra) Marshall, 2 cats & 1 grand dog.
He attended St. Charles Catholic Borromeo Church.
Sam leaves a host of friends who will miss his quirky humor, intentional malapropisms, infectious laugh and bright mind.
Celebration of Life Service will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, August 9, 2019 at Grace Episcopal Church in Yukon, OK. In lieu of flowers donations to OMRF are requested in Sam’s memory. On line condolences may be signed at http://www.yandafuneral.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Yanda & Son funeral Home and Cremations Services, Yukon, OK.
