Sammy L Bourland

Sammy L. Bourland of Ina, Illinois passed away on October 28, 2021 at the age of 79 years old.  Sam passed away peacefully at home with his wife, Debbie, and his family by his side. He was born May 13, 1942 in Duquoin, Illinois, the son of Ernest and Faye (Fann) Bourland.
Sam was a college graduate whose career involved being a high school chemistry and physics teacher.  Sam later went back to college to earn a degree in engineering.  Sam worked as a quality control engineer for several different companies, including Littlefuse (Centralia, IL) and companies in Tennessee and Mississippi until his retirement at age 55.
He enjoyed traveling with his wife, Debbie, of 33 years, frequent trips to his favorite restaurant Denny’s with their best friends Gerald “Smitty” and Janette Smith and spending time with his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Sam was also a ham radio enthusiast.  His love for building radios and antennas and talking to people all over the world via ham radio went well over 60 years.!Sam was a member of the Ina Freewill Baptist Church in Ina, Illinois where he and his wife Debbie spent time volunteering for church functions.  Sam had a deep love for his church family and our Lord Jesus Christ.
Sam is survived by his children Gwen Horton and Barry Horton of Dix, Illinois, Angie Nowitzke and Mike Nowitzke of Bluford, Illinois, Tiffanie Heifner and Jeff Heifner of Bluford, Illinois; grandchildren Elizabeth Wairimu, Sarah Heern, Torrie Kiel, Taylor Nowitzke, Garrett Heifner and Wyatt Heifner; 5 great grandchildren and 1 on the way; sister Brenda Ettner Rose and special friend Gerald “Smitty” Smith.
Sam was loved very much by his family and friends and will be missed. 
At Sam’s request there will be no funeral service.  Any donations can be sent to Ina Freewill Baptist Church in Ina, Illinois in Sam’s memory.
For more information or to send online condolences please visit www.johnstonfuneralhome.com

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