Sam P. Starfas passed away on Sept. 6, 2025, after a brief illness, at Vista del Monte, where he had lived for 13 years.

Sam was born Nov. 21, 1927, in East Los Angeles to Beatrice and Panno Starfas. He always had a fondness for Los Angeles.

He grew up in Ventura through 10th grade, and after a family move graduated from Santa Maria High School.

Sam enlisted in the U.S. Navy in June 1945 and served until August 1946. After that he attended his beloved USC and graduated in 1951. A master’s degree from Oregon State ended his formal education.

Sam taught business subjects such as keyboarding, shorthand, business law and bookkeeping at Arroyo Grande High School, followed by seven years with Union Oil in Los Angeles.

He returned to teaching at Morro Bay High School, followed by 25 years at San Marcos High School in Santa Barbara.

Sam was grateful to his students for a “pleasant teaching experience.” He had fun and hoped his students did, too, and that they also learned something.

Sam and his first wife, Lenore, were the proud parents of four children. Sam and Ellie Veazey were married in 1980 and enjoyed 45 years together traveling, volunteering, and enjoying life in Santa Barbara.

Sam’s parents, sister Marina, and brothers Tom and Panno predeceased him.

He is survived by his four children, his “cherubs” Debra, Nancy, Sam and Tom. Also surviving are his grandchildren, Rachelle, Ashley and Todd; great granddaughters Kailey and Becca; along with stepchildren and step-grandchildren; his wife Ellie; niece Diana; and nephews Paul and Spiro.

Sam was known for his friendly smile, wry sense of humor and spontaneous quips. His favorite words were “Fight On” (USC) and “Know thyself” (Socrates).

There will be a celebration of life at 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, at Vista del Monte.