John Owen Samuelson

John 0. Samuelson, a dedicated educator and coach, passed away at home in Hot Springs Village on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on August 26, 1939, in Fairfield, Iowa. He was the son of the late Mary Ellen and Chester A. Samuelson. 

John graduated from Fairfield High School before earning his Bachelor of Arts degree from Parsons College in Fairfield. He pursued graduate studies at Colorado State College in Greeley, the Pigeon Lake Institute through the University of Wisconsin, and the University of Northern Iowa. 

In 1965, John began his teaching career at Tripoli High School, where he taught high school biology and seventh-grade life science. He also founded and served as head coach of the wrestling program, earning recognition as I.W.C.O.A. Coach of the Year in 1982. In addition to wrestling, John coached junior high football and scouted for the high school team. After retiring from teaching at Tripoli High School in 1987, John and his wife Bonnie moved to Fort Worth, TX. It was there that he played an integral role in developing club wrestling. He also enjoyed coaching and refereeing club wrestling. In 2005 they moved to Hot Springs Village. Shortly thereafter, he resumed teaching as a substitute at Jessieville High School, where he was affectionately known as "Mr. Sam." He continued to inspire students and colleagues until May of 2024. In 2021, in gratitude for his decades of service to the students of Tripoli High School, John was inducted into the Tripoli Hall of Fame as one of the most outstanding educators in the history of Tripoli. 

Outside of his professional life, John enjoyed boating, fishing, golfing, and cheering on his favorite sports teams. John was a faithful and longtime member of Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, Hot Springs Village and volunteered countless hours for various duties including being assistant captain in the kitchen! 

John is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Bonnie; their son Chester A. Samuelson (Ronda) of Pima, Arizona; their daughter Karla S. Gustaf (Jim) of Fort Worth, Texas; five grandsons: Eric Gustaf (Amie), Alex Gustaf (Tori), Micah Samuelson, Noah Samuelson, and Ezra Samuelson; four great-grandsons and one great-granddaughter; his sister, Sue Helfenstine; his brother, Jim Samuelson; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. 

A requiem mass will be held for John on Saturday, February 8, 2025 at 2 p.m. with a reception to follow at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Hot Springs Village. 

John's legacy as an educator and mentor will be cherished by all who knew him. May his memory and legacy be a blessing.

Memorials preferred to Holy Trinity Episcopal Church 199 Barcelona Rd, Hot Springs Village, AR 71909 or a charity of the donor's choice.

Arrangements by Arkansas Cremation, 10515 W Markham St, Suite B1, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205. If you would like to leave a message of condolence to the family, you may do so using the Guestbook section.

www.arkansascremation.com