He is home!! "For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ." Phil. 3:20. Sam has completed his earthly journey and is now home with his Lord and Savior. Sam passed from this world on Wednesday morning July 18, 2018 at his residence surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on May 7, 1946 to Stanley Earl and Mildred (Spriggins) Chronister.  Sam graduated in 1964 from Union (Crestview) High School where he excelled in baseball and was named to the Crestview Hall of Fame and went on to play semi-pro ball.  Following graduation he was employed as a diesel mechanic at Truck Stop 250 for several years.  In 2002 Sam retired from The Timken Company after 32 years working with many great co-workers.
On August 11, 1968, Sam married Sheila K. Hager, who was the love of his life for 49 years.  Survivors include his wife Sheila, their daughter Mindy (David) Van Schaik and their daughters Gracie and Alexei of Waynesville, Ohio.  Brothers John (Carolyn) of Shiloh, Tom (Betty) of Wooster, and Lee (Mary) of Shiloh.  Brothers-in-law Stephen (Pat) Hager of Ashland, Mark (Elaine) Hager of Mansfield, Bruce Hager of Wellington and Sister-in-law Pam (Dave) Bright of Hayesville and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, step-father Wayne Amstutz, and father-in law and mother-in-law Rollen and Shirley Hager.
Sam and Sheila attend Grace Brethren Church and so appreciate Pastor Dan's strong preaching of the Word and warm fellowship of their many friends.
In June, 1978 Sam was chosen as Foster Father of the year for Ashland County which was presented to him by Governor Rhoades.  This led Sam to become involved with the Hay-Ver-Miff baseball and softball summer youth programs.  Coaching with Jim Long and Ron Shenberger and formed forever friendships. They had very successful teams with great players and supportive parents
One of Sam's greatest joys was spending time with Mindy, David, Gracie and Alexei from the many school programs, sporting events, camping, and just relaxing as a family.
Sam enjoyed many outdoor sports such as golfing with his father-in-law, snowmobiling, camping, hunting, and fishing.  He also enjoyed sprint car racing and being involved with the 4* Tyler Street Racing team these last couple years.
Friends and family may gather to celebrate Sam's life on Saturday, August 4, 2018 at 1:30pm at Grace Brethren Church, 1144 W. Main St., Ashland, Ohio.   Pastor John Bouquet of Bethel Baptist Church will be officiating the celebration.
A private graveside service and inurnment for the family will take place at the Vermillion Cemetery, Hayesville.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to:
Grace Brethren Church Missions Fund, 1144 W.Main St., Ashland, Ohio 44805;
Hayesville-Vermillion Fire Dept., P. O. Box 242, Hayesville, Ohio 44838; or
Hospice of North Central Ohio Vigil Fund, 1050 Dauch Dr., Ashland, Ohio  44805.