Sam Wilson

Roger “Sam” Dale Wilson, 80, of Salt Lake City, passed away on Monday November 27^th, after struggling with cancer.  Sam was born on March 2, 1943 to Robert and Joy Wilson in Kansas City, Missouri.  The family later moved to Long Beach, California where Sam spent his formative years, graduating from Millikan High school in 1961.

Sam studied art at Long Beach State University where his education was interrupted by being drafted and serving two years, with a tour in Vietnam.  Upon his return he graduated with both a Bachelors and Masters degree in fine arts.  Sam married Karen MacQuarrie, with whom he had one son, Lucas Wilson. Later they divorced.

In 1979 Sam was hired by the University of Utah Fine Arts Department where he taught both drawing and painting for 36 years, including a 3-year stint as chair.  Here he met his future wife, Kristie Krumbach and they were married in 1986.  Sam and Kristie have been life long partners, sharing a love for art, travel and their weekly ritual of Thursday night martinis and good conversations.

Sam was a prolific artist and dedicated teacher.  His influence with his students changed many lives.  He also gave back to the community working with organizations like Art Access and their Partners Program.

Sam’s work was acknowledged over the years with multiple awards and recognitions including the Salt Lake Visual Mayor’s award, one of the 100 “Most Honored Artists of Utah”, Utah 15 Recipient, and the 2010 Festival Madeline Award.

Sam’s most notable and public work is the Fourteen Stations of the Cross – a part of the Cathedral of the Madeleine restoration project which he completed in 1993.  Sam always felt this body of work would mark his legacy. 

Sam was preceded in death by his father, Robert; mother, Joy; and brother Rodney.  He is survived by his loving wife Kristie, son Lucas, granddaughters Joy and Isis, and cat Hazel.

Sam was one of a kind.  His brilliance was shown through his art, his penchant for creating zinger puns, and his delivery of a perfect humorous turn of phrase.  

To honor him and celebrate his life, there will be a show of his work at Fifteenth Street Gallery, on Saturday January 13^th from 5 – 8 pm.  Details will be on the gallery website:  15thstreetgallery.com