Bonnie Betty Sam, Swis-Qua-Tail II, age 50, of the Upper Skagit Indian Tribe, Sedro-Woolley, Washington, passed away at home July 29, 2024.  She was born September 25, 1973, in Mount Vernon, WA to Harlan, Sr. and Darlene (Damien) Sam.

Bonnie was a very caring mom, had lots of kids, as a community mother; her smile brightened everyone’s day.  She had a big heart, loved doing things for other people.  Bonnie continued to enjoy playing softball and soccer.  She loved being out on the water, fishing, as well as cultural events and Summer Pow Wows.  She loved working on and drawing traditional cultural art.  She participated in the first “Paddle to Seattle” in 1989.  She worked at the Upper Skagit Enterprises woodshop, and at the Skagit Casino as a dealer and supervisor.

Bonnie is survived by her children, Levi Paul, Jr., Jessie Paul and Edward Sneatlum; father, Harlan Sam, Sr.; siblings, Laura (Rome) Sam, Elaine (Mark) Neideffer, Darlene Sam, Jr., Harlan Sam, Jr., Fox Sam, Sr. and Barbra Sam; many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Darlene Sam, Sr.; grandson, Desmond Paul; nieces and nephews, Wilbur Baily, Jr., Snow Sam, Cassandra Sam-Joe, Paul Mathias, Jr. and Everett Sam; sister, Armena Sam; grandma, Katherine Jack; grandpa, Robert Sam; great grandma, Maggie Williams; great uncle, Henry ‘Smokey’ Lyle.

A Prayer Service will be held at 7:00, Thursday, August 1, 2024, at the Upper Skagit Indian Gymnasium and Funeral at 10:00 Friday at the Gym followed by Committal at the Hamilton Indian Cemetery.

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