Sam J. Ohanesian

Sam J. Ohanesian, 80, of Roundup, crossed the great divide on June 29, 2019.

Sam was born on Sept. 20, 1938, to Emma and Sam Ohanesian in Opheim. Sam graduated from Opheim High School in 1956. He attended Northern Montana College for two years, transferring to Montana State University, receiving a bachelor's degree in education. He completed his education at Northern with a master's degree in education and industrial arts.

Sam met and married the love of his life, Linda, in 1958. From that union came three girls: Jontee, Janice and Jeanette. Sam began teaching in Shelby in 1965 and touched many lives. He was awarded the Montana Teacher of the Year twice, and was coach of a national champion Plymouth Troubleshooting team.

After 27 years in Shelby, "Mr. O" retired to pursue his favorite things: team roping, helping neighbors move cattle and building houses. His children and grandchildren were his life. Sam was proud to be known as a cowboy. He raised some really good kids and many good horses, all without ever being mean.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Emma Ohanesian; father Sam Ohanesian; and sister Helen Osgood. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Linda; daughters Jontee Ohanesian of Bozeman, Sydney Slabodnik, Gabrielle Ohanesian, Janice Blackmore (Randy), Trinda, Taggert, Melissa of Roundup, Jeanette (Jeff) Clary of Shelby; Shadee (Tyler) Kapus of Denver.

Waylon said it best when he sang it to Willie: "If you see me getting' smaller, I'm leavin', don't be grievin', just gotta get away from here."

Until I see you again, Cowboy.