Herbert Samek

Herbert Charles Samek was born to Charles Clement Samek and Lillian Mildred Meyers on December 7th, 1944, in Dickinson, North Dakota.

He attended St. Joseph Catholic School and graduated from Dickinson Central High in 1964. During this time, he ran a minnow business along with his brother Ray and cousins, Ronny and Jim Smith. At the age of 15, he suffered the great loss of his mother, due to a car accident.

He worked for the railroad after graduation from 1964-1965 which took him to Huntley, Montana. He then joined the Army in 1965 instead of being drafted. He first served in Germany, then France, and finally Vietnam. After discharge in 1968, he returned to Billings, Montana, and started working for the Hart Albin Department Store. In January 1972 he met the love of his life Candace Frink at the Midway where they loved to dance to the Plastic Moose. They were married at St. Patrick's Catholic Church on September 29th,1973. They have two children Stephanie and Lisa.

Herb began work at Deaconess Hospital (Billings Clinic) in 1976. He was a reliable and punctual worker, who received many awards and many compliments for his work. It was known around the OR Department that, "If Herb can't fix it no one can." Herb also ran a candy business called H.C. Vending from the early 80s to late 90s. He had over 30 machines in various locations and loved to share candy and chips with family and friends. He retired from Billings Clinic in 2010 as a Surgical Maintenance Technician II.

Herb was the family handyman, plumber, electrician, and builder. After retirement, he still found plenty of projects to keep himself busy.

Being a classic car enthusiast he could name just about every make, year, and model of car. He also enjoyed working on cars, which was something he had in common with his brothers. He would make special trips to different classic car shows. Herb enjoyed being outside in his beautiful garden and yard. He would spend many summer hours maintaining it and keeping it lovely all season. One Christmas he was awarded first place by the Billings Gazette for his outdoor Christmas display. He was very proud of this accomplishment.

Herb fought many illnesses throughout his life. He dealt with the effects of Agent Orange exposure. He fought a several-year courageous battle with dementia.

Herb died at his home on August 6th, 2024, surrounded by his family. He is survived by his wife, Candace. His children Stephanie James (Norman LoPatin), and Lisa Massick (Jim). Grandchildren Destiny Williams (Rod), Austin Samek, Anna Massick, three great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. His sister Shirley Lundgren (Rodger) from Green River, Wyoming. Nephew and godson Brien Krank (Darla) from Fargo, North Dakota.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Lillian, and brothers, Ray, Randy, and Chuck.

The Funeral Service will be held on Friday, August 30th, beginning with a car motorcade at 11:00 am at Dahl Funeral Chapel, 10 Yellowstone Avenue, Billings, Montana. Following that, a 12:00 pm graveside service with full military honors will take place at the Yellowstone National Cemetery, 55 Buffalo Trail, Laurel, Montana. Please join us for a reception at 1:00 pm at DanWalt Gardens, 720 Washington Street, Billings, Montana.