SPARKS, Nevada — I am heartbroken to announce the passing of my loving father and best friend, Sam Frank Malta, age 80, of Sparks, Nevada on Feb. 23, 2023.

Sam is survived by his daughter, Tammy (Chris) Rieken of Reno; sister, Linda Milligan; brother-in-law, Ken Phillips; sister-in-law, Lola Malta; three grandchildren, Brandon, Alyson and Shane Rieken; and many nieces and nephews.

Sam was a professional meat cutter and business owner and proudly served as a petty officer in the United States Navy from 1960-1964. He enjoyed retirement the last 30 years.

Sam’s passions included fishing, golf, San Francisco Giants and 49ers. His daughter Tammy shares his love of baseball and she is grateful to him that she is not an LA Dodgers fan!

Sam is remembered and loved by many friends, neighbors and family for his smile, kind heart, mentorship, attitude of gratitude, generosity and dedication to all who he cared about.

Lastly, Sam was a gardener and his tomatoes and sweet peas will surely be missed!

Sam will be reunited with his beloved wife Victoria Marie of 60 years who passed seven years ago. He will join Victoria in eternal rest on Monday, March 13, 2023 at Northern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Fernley, Nevada.

A celebration of Sam’s life will be announced at a later date.