WATERVILLE – Samuel R. Laflin, 83, of Central St., Hallowell, died after a short illness, surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, June 13, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, Thayer Unit, in Waterville.

He was born in Hallowell on Aug. 28, 1925, the son of Ruth and Kirk Laflin.

He was educated in Hallowell schools and graduated from Hallowell High School in 1943. After high school he joined the military, serving with the U.S. Navy aboard the LCS(L) (3)-33.

He was stationed in the Pacific Theatre during WWII until 1945, and was the recipient of a Purple Heart. He served with the Maine National Guard retiring with the rank of Major. He served as the chief of machine accounting for 31 years at Camp Keyes in Augusta.

He enjoyed playing cribbage with his friends, fishing, horse racing, playing golf and watching the Red Sox. He found great pleasure in cooking for family and friends.

Family was most important to Sam, and he would put their interests before his.

He spent many hours coaching baseball and basketball teams for his son when he was growing up. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren play sports.

In 2008, Sam was honored by the Augusta Babe Ruth League for serving as their first president.

He is survived by his companion of 15 years, Marjorie Guay of Hallowell; a son, Jeffrey Laflin of Hallowell; two daughters, Jill Buzzell of Farmingdale and Karen Danyla and her husband, Mark, of Auburn; a brother, Richard Laflin and his wife, Polly, of Hallowell; a sister, Geri Shipley of Middleton, Mass.; five grandchildren, Samuel Laflin and his wife, Jen, of East Greenbush, N.Y., Kasey Doody of Randolph, Benjamin Laflin of Hallowell, Caitlyn Laflin of Farmingdale and Cody Buzzell also of Farmingdale; three great-grandchildren, Alyssa Gagne of Randolph, Jackson Cole of Randolph and Tayshaun Cleveland of Farmingdale; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was predeceased by his wife, Gloria Laflin in 1974; five brothers; and three sisters.