Samuel Paul "Sam" Martins, 19, of Hale Center, passed away Monday, March 31, 2025. A funeral mass will be held at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, April 26, 2025, at St. Theresa's Catholic Church, with Father Alex Ambrose, officiating. A reception will follow from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Taqueria Florencia Restaurant in Hale Center.

Samuel was born April 1, 2005, in San Luis Obispo, California, to Joe and Donna (Blake) Martins. He graduated from high school in Hollister, California, in June 2023 and moved to Hale Center in September 2023. From a young age, Sam had a deep love for agriculture and was an active member of FFA, earning awards at the state level. His passion for agriculture led him to begin driving and working on tractors, trucks, and forklifts at just 12 years old. With a strong work ethic, Sam was dedicated to his job at Corteva Agriscience, where he was known for his loyalty, generosity, and determination.

Sam had a fighting spirit, overcoming every health challenge with resilience. His carefree nature, sense of humor, and ability to love deeply endeared him to all who knew him. Friends were his passion, and he cherished his time with them. As a proud member of the "Slow Truck Mafia," Samuel found joy in driving old diesel pickup trucks.

Sam is survived by his parents, Joe and Donna Martins of Hale Center; his brother, Timothy Martins of Waialua, Hawaii; his sister, Sophie Martins of Hale Center; numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins; and many wonderful friends who will forever hold his memory close.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to the Lucile Packard Foundation Hematology and Oncology Department in support of Stanford Children's Hospital at www.lpfch.org.