Samuel Burtnick - Obituary

am Burtnick, 73, of Edgewater/Davidsonville, MD, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 21, 2024, after a long battle with ALS. His final moments were spent in his home surrounded by loved ones. In 2018, Sam sought medical care for an unexplained weakness and loss of stability in his left leg. After numerous doctor visits and surgeries, a team of neurologists at the ALS Clinic in Baltimore, MD, determined he was experiencing symptoms of ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. ALS attacks the nervous system and weakens the body. Sam fought for 5+ years to prove it could not weaken his intellect, spirit, or passion for life. Sam enjoyed spending time with his family above all else. It is difficult to list hobbies because his family is his passion. He loved to take his family on day trips to the mountains or vacations to the islands. In his younger days, he loved to go on fishing trips, and he loved to go fast in his Pontiac GTO or, later, in his Toyota Supra. He loved cheering for the home team. He rooted for the Orioles, the Capitals, and especially, his beloved Redskins. Perhaps his favorite home team consisted of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was an incredibly supportive father and grandfather during football games, lacrosse games, hockey games, and boxing matches. During business hours, Sam was a hell of a salesman. He knew how to identify clients' needs, build lasting relationships, and ensure their interests were met over time. He managed his business relationships with optimism and a remarkable mix of patience and persistence. Sam is survived by his wife of 47 years, Mary Burtnick; three children, Andrew (Kiki), Brian, and Audrey (Chris); one sister, Irene; six grandchildren, Branden (Crystal), Lily, Wyatt, Nolan, Abigail, and Lucy; and four great-grandchildren Max, Bradley, Bentley, and Brody. In addition to his parents, Joseph and Mary, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Raymond and Norman, and his grandson, Tyler. Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate Samuel's life at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD, on Friday, March 29, from 11 am until his funeral begins at 1 pm. Please take a moment to leave a condolence for the family by visiting the Memories link on this page.