Samuel L. Bandsma

Samuel L. "Babe" Bandsma, 86, died October 5, 2010, at his home with his family by his side. Mr. Bandsma was born July 3, 1924, in Port Arthur, Texas, to Sam Bandsma and Nellie Kooman Bandsma of Holland. He served in the United States Army, 54th Battalion. After his honorable discharge in 1946, he returned to the Port Arthur area, worked at Texaco Refinery as a pipe fitter and retired in 1982 after 36 years of service. He enjoyed traveling and spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was a good and honorable man who always had a kind smile. He will be missed greatly by his family and everyone who knew him. Mr. Bandsma is preceded in death by his daughter, Linda Bandsma Isom, and is survived by his wife of 66 years, Anna Rose Bandsma, son-in-law, John W. "Bill" Isom, grandchildren, Patrick and wife Shannon Isom and Christie Isom, and great grandchildren, Samantha Sharpnack-Isom, Jacob Isom and Kieran Isom. Viewing will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 pm, Thursday, October 7, 2010, at Levingston Funeral Home, 2001 Nall, Port Neches, Texas, with a memorial service to follow at 10 am, Friday, October 8. Burial will immediately follow at Greenlawn Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Tom Cahill, Jamie Denney, Paul Guilbeau, Ray Guilhas, Mike Smith and Jerry Watson. Honorary pallbearers will be Harley Denney, Ronnie Guilbeau, Bill Isom and Jacob Isom. The family would like to thank Samantha, Shantella, Stephanie and the rest of the compassionate and dedicated staff at Synergy Home Care and Odyssey Hospice. Deepest appreciation is also extended to Monsignor Bennie Patillo for his spiritual guidance and support. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, P.O. Box 4486 Houston, Texas 77210-4486.