TURLOCK, CA — Chester Samuel “Sam” Cushing III, a longtime California resident remembered for his quiet nature, gentle humor and devotion to family, died peacefully on January 1, 2026. He was 89.
Sam’s life included military service, a decades-long career in California’s public utilities, a love of writing and the outdoors, and a deep commitment to his family and faith.
Early Life and Military Service
Sam was born on March 22, 1936, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Chester Samuel Cushing II and Lela Birdie Cutler Cushing.
He grew up in Salem, Oregon, where he remained connected to his family and community during his early years.
After graduating from high school, Sam attended Brigham Young University for one year before enlisting in the United States Army. During his military service, he was stationed in La Cañada, California, where he served at a Nike Air Missile base.
His time in the Army became an important chapter in a life that would later be devoted to work, family and community.
A Career in Public Utilities
Following his military service, Sam established a long career in California’s public utility sector.
He began working for the Turlock Irrigation District as a ditch tender before advancing to positions as a lineman and eventually a dispatcher. He later transferred to the Modesto Irrigation District, where he continued his work as a dispatcher until retiring.
His professional life reflected decades of steady service and dedication. The different positions he held allowed him to contribute to the operation of two important irrigation districts in the Central Valley.
A Love of Writing and the Outdoors
Outside his career, Sam developed a strong appreciation for reading and writing.
He was particularly proud of having his work published several times in Sporting Classics Magazine, an accomplishment that reflected his interest in writing and the subjects he enjoyed.
Sam also loved spending time outdoors. Fishing, walking along the canal and hiking in Pinecrest were among the activities he enjoyed.
He took particular pride in caring for his yard and was known for maintaining his lawn faithfully with a push mower.
Faith and Family
Faith was another central part of Sam’s life. He was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
As a young man, Sam and his family were involved in organizing the first branch of the Church in Salem, Oregon, creating a connection to his faith community that continued throughout his life.
Sam was married to his beloved wife, Dorene Barbara Sadler Cushing, for 69 years. Their marriage was at the center of his family life.
He is survived by Dorene; his children, Kym Cushing, Mark Cushing and Cheri Cushing Starkey; his sister, Lela Marie Cushing; seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
Remembering Sam Cushing
Those closest to Sam remembered him as quiet and soft-spoken, but also as someone with a gentle sense of humor and a sincere way of expressing himself.
He was not necessarily the loudest person in a room, but when he spoke, his words carried the sincerity of someone who meant what he said.
His family and loved ones will remember the many ordinary moments that made up his life — time spent together, his interests, his humor, his devotion to his wife and children, and the years of memories created across generations.
Sam Cushing Funeral and Memorial Arrangements
Sam’s obituary states that, according to his wishes, no funeral or memorial services will be held.
His family will instead carry his memory through the life they shared with him and the memories created during his 89 years.
Sam Cushing Obituary Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full name | Chester Samuel “Sam” Cushing III |
| Age | 89 |
| Born | March 22, 1936 |
| Birthplace | Salt Lake City, Utah |
| Raised in | Salem, Oregon |
| Date of death | January 1, 2026 |
| Military service | United States Army |
| Military assignment | Nike Air Missile base, La Cañada, California |
| Career | Turlock Irrigation District; Modesto Irrigation District |
| Retirement position | Dispatcher |
| Writing | Published several times in Sporting Classics Magazine |
| Faith | The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints |
| Wife | Dorene Barbara Sadler Cushing |
| Marriage | 69 years |
| Children | Kym Cushing, Mark Cushing and Cheri Cushing Starkey |
| Sister | Lela Marie Cushing |
| Grandchildren | Seven |
| Great-grandchildren | Eight |
| Services | None, according to his wishes |
A Life Remembered
Chester Samuel “Sam” Cushing III leaves behind a legacy shaped by family, service, faith and quiet personal interests.
From his early years in Oregon and his military service to his long career with California irrigation districts, Sam spent much of his life contributing through steady work and dedication.
Away from his career, he found fulfillment in writing, reading, fishing, hiking, walking and caring for his home. Above all, he was a husband, father, grandfather and friend whose presence remained deeply meaningful to those closest to him.
His family will remember him not only for the years he lived, but for the values, memories and relationships he leaves behind.
Disclaimer: This obituary is based on published memorial information and is intended for general informational purposes. Funeral and memorial arrangements may be subject to change. The family and authorized representatives retain the right to release or update official obituary information.