Columbus
Samuel Andrew Pillar, 92, passed away Friday, June 24, 2016, at Four Seasons in Columbus. He was a former resident of Alameda, California.
He was born Feb. 8, 1926, in Gary. After finishing high school, Sam enlisted in the United States Navy and served nearly two years before being accepted into the United States Naval Academy in June 1943.
Due to the war, midshipmen were accelerated through their training. Sam graduated with the USNA class of 1947 in June of 1946.
He remained in the Navy as a supply officer. While stationed in Philadelphia, he met Anne Marie Wert. They were married at the Naval Academy Chapel on May 8, 1953.
Sam and Anne traveled the world together through Sam’s many overseas assignments. After a nearly 27-year naval career, Sam retired as a Commander on Jan. 31, 1971, in Alameda, California.
He went to work as an auditor for Alameda County in California while he and Anne continued to travel the world. Sam retired again and they traveled until her death in 2002.
Sam moved to Columbus in 2013 to be closer to family.
Sam is survived by several nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.
In accordance with his wishes, he will be cremated and inurned at the United States Naval Academy.
Myers-Reed Dignity Memorial Chapel is handling arrangements.
The Rev. Larry Isbell will conduct a memorial service at 6 p.m. Friday at Four Seasons Retirement Center chapel, 1901 Taylor Road, Columbus.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Sam’s name to Our Hospice of South Central Indiana or Four Seasons Retirement Center, ATTN: Health Care Christmas Fund.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.myers-reed.com.
