Samuel W. Medina, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather as well as an esteemed member of the San Luis community. Samuel departed from this world peacefully on April 29, 2026, at the age of 77. Samuel, affectionately known as Sam, was born on February 8, 1949 to Aurturo and Ursulita Choury in Denver, Colorado. At six days old he was adopted by his loving Uncle Sam Medina & his wife Rose.

Sam will be forever missed by his devoted wife, Theresa Medina, with whom he shared a beautiful life since their marriage of 56 years in Questa, New Mexico, on April 16, 1970. Following his honorable service in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War, they built a loving family that includes their son, Rene (Melanie) Medina, daughters Andrea (Adam) Cordova, and April (Sammy) Santistevan, and a cherished legacy of grandsons: Keoki (Tacey) Medina, Matthew Medina, Jacob Curtis, James (Ariah) Cordova, Anthony (Maria Rodriguez) Vigil, Christian (Noemi Renteria) Santistevan, Damian (Ashley) Santistevan, and Delfino Ortega. He is also survived by his great-grandchildren: Kamaya, Ayden, Lucas, Cameron, Yozmani, Esai, Azalia, Ariana, Baby boy, and Emiliano Ortega; numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends.

For over 52 years, Sam proudly owned and operated Sam's Covered Wagon Bar and Restaurant, becoming a cornerstone of the San Luis community. He was known for his kind spirit, generous heart, and commitment to service, having held esteemed positions such as former Mayor of San Luis and past commander of the VFW as well as member of the American Legion and DAV.

Sam was a lover of the great outdoors, finding joy in the mountains where he gathered bows for holiday wreaths and trees for festive celebrations. A loving man who treasured his family, he delighted in reminiscing and spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, nurturing a bond that transcended generations. He took pride in raising several nieces and nephews, embracing each with love and affection.

Sam enjoyed the occasional gamble (or cha-chinging as he would say) and took memorable trips with his boys, embodying the joy of living life to the fullest. His memory will forever loom large in the hearts of those who knew him—a man who not only made a mark on his community but also in the lives of all he touched.

Samuel was preceded in death by his parents Arturo and Ursulita Choury, Sam and Rose Medina, and two grandsons: Ezekiel Cordova and Emilio Ortega. Six siblings Darlene Montoya, Arthur Choury, Sophie Chambers, Clifford Choury, Robert Choury, Clarence B. Medina.

Cremation was performed at the Rogers Family Mortuary Crematory in Alamosa. A Recitation of the Rosary will be held at 6:00 p.m. Thursday, May 21, 2026, followed by a Funeral Mass of Catholic Burial 1:00 p.m. Friday, May 22, 2026, both at the Sangre de Cristo Catholic Parish in San Luis. Interment will follow services with military honors in the San Luis Cemetery.

Rogers Family Mortuary is in care of the arrangements. To leave online words of comfort, remembrances of Sam, and tributes for his family, please visit www.RogersFunerals.com