Sam Roth passed away on Oct. 25, 2015, at age 38, from a car accident in San Diego, California.  

He was born on Nov. 1, 1976, the son of Karen Kerr Mechem and Leslie Roth in San Diego, California. He was raised in South Ogden,  Utah and graduated from Bonneville High School in 1994. He joined the U.S. Air Force and served four years active duty. He was a firefighter/EMT for almost 20 years, earning the rank of captain with the Hill Air Force Base Fire Department. 

Concurrently, he continued his military career as a reservist with the 419th Fighter Wing. Sam deployed with the U.S. Air Force on multiple tours to the Middle East. 

He met the love of his life, Rachel Loftus, during their tour in Iraq. They were married on Aug. 20, 2015. 

Sam lived life to the fullest — sharp witted, caring, fun, a great sense of humor, selfless, and had a huge heart. He was truly loved by everyone. He loved boating, was an avid San Diego Charger Fan, and enjoyed the ocean and golfing. 

Sam is survived by his wife, Rachel, Farr West, Utah; parents, Karen (Robert) Mechem, Mesquite, Nevada and Leslie Roth, Ogden, Utah; sister, Barbara (George) De Los Reyes, Imperial Beach, California; uncle and aunt, Kallen and Mary Kerr, Ogden, Utah; and uncle and aunt, Jack and Terry Kerr, San Diego, California. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Robert and Lois Kerr, and his aunt Barbara Jean Kerr. 

Graveside services were held Nov. 9 at 10 a.m. at Lindquist’s Memorial Gardens of the Wasatch, 1718 Combe Road. 

The family thanks the Hill Air Force Base Fire Department, the 419th Fighter Wing, and the South Ogden Fire Department for their support during this difficult time. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you make donations to the fire fighter charity of your choice.