W. Samuel Tijan

W. Samuel Tijan, age 70, of Ft. Myers, FL and Vadnais Heights, MN, passed away peacefully on the afternoon of Saturday, June 1, 2024 at his home with his family at his side.

Sam was born on October 4, 1953, in Phelps, WI, to Bill and Mary Tijan. He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Connie.; his children: Sam (Carin) Tijan, Jamee (Jeff) Yung, and Katy Tijan; his brother John (Joan) Tijan; his grandchildren: Chloe, Hazel, and Mary; 3 dear nieces and many very close friends.

After graduating high school in Eagle River, Sam attended the University of Wisconsin-Stout in Menomonie, WI. From there, he became a high school teacher, teaching industrial arts and technology education at Pulaski, WI, and then at Lakeland Union High School in Minocqua, WI where he retired in 2009. After retiring from Lakeland, he was an active substitute teacher for the Northland Pines School district in Eagle River. He was a gifted teacher both in school and to his friends and family. He was passionate about always learning and took on new challenges as opportunities to learn; a perspective he was able to pass on to those around him.

Sam was an avid hunter and fisherman throughout his life. Hunting with his son and close friends was an annual tradition. After retirement, he loved fishing for sharks on the Sanibel causeway in the winter and taking his granddaughters to fish the local lakes of Minnesota in the summer. Spending time with his wife and watching his kids grow and start families of their own brought him the most joy.

The family would like to thank Dr. Wesley, nurse Mackenzie and the staff at Woodwinds Hospital, Woodbury, MN, and Adam, nurses Katie and Emily, and the staff at St. Croix Hospice for their care and compassion.

A small private family service will be held at a later date.

memorial service

Funeral/Cremation Provider: Crescent Tide Cremation Services