Samuel Zachary Degan

Samuel Zachary Degan was born on Mother's day May 10, 1987. He passed away Feb 10, 2024. He was a loving son and cared deeply about people. His charming and magnetic personality drew people together and helped develop many close friendships over the years. Sam's friends describe him as having a big heart. Sam loved animals, and the family had many pets over the years. Splash, Blackie and Jack were some of his favorite dogs.

Sam grew up in Bear Creek and was always involved in sports. He competed in soccer, baseball, and football. His favorite, however, was skateboarding which he continued into adulthood. Sam spent many fun summers at T BAR M sports camp in the Hill Country as well as many summers on his Aunt Vikki's farm. Fishing, water skiing and kayaking on Galveston Bay became his passions later on. The highlight of Sam's outdoor achievement was successfully climbing Emory Peak in Big Bend. Yes, he ascended to the top but the biggest challenge was returning down the mountain and to the cabin in the dark without a flashlight.

Sam participated in many fun runs, usually placing in his category and, also participated in one of the first fun runs benefiting the Alzheimer's Association to honor his grandmother, Laura. Sam was a good student. In 1999 Sam received the President's award for Educational Excellence in recognition of Outstanding Academic Achievement.

Sam was also a talented artist earning a 1st place ribbon at the Houston Livestock Show student art exhibit.

Sam is preceded in death by his elder brother John Patrick who recently passed away and his Aunt Vikki, Uncle Frank and grandparents. He is survived by his loving parents Laura Jo and John and extended family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his honor to an animal shelter of your choice.

A celebration of life for Samuel will be held Saturday, March 16, 2024 at 3:00 PM, in the Pecan Venue of Memorial Oaks Funeral Home, 13001 Katy Freeway, Texas 77079.