About This Memory Space
This page was created for Morris Sam Denton's family and friends as a place to remember them, to share stories, and to keep their memory close in everyday life.
It is cared for and added to over time by the people who knew them, and everyone is invited to contribute, whether that is a story, a photo, a few words, or a simple note.
Many families visit places like this not just once, but again and again, especially on quiet days or meaningful anniversaries. This page is here for those moments, wherever you are.
A place to return to when you want to feel close again, to remember a moment, or to leave a few words for others to read. Over time, it grows through the voices of everyone who knew and loved them.
Light a Candle Growing
Light a candle to honor Morris Sam Denton's memory. Each lighting keeps their memory burning bright for 23 hours.
Candle lit burns 23 hours. Come back and light it again after 23 hours to keep the memory burning.
Limited to 5 lightings per hour to prevent abuse.
Memory Wall Growing
Stories, photos, and memories shared by people who knew Morris Sam Denton. This is the heart of this space—a collection that grows as more people contribute.
No memories posted yet. Be the first to share a story or memory.
Life & Legacy
Morris 'Sam' Denton Jr. crafted a vibrant life marked by bold adventures, steadfast service to his community, and an unyielding passion for the bonds that matter most, leaving an indelible mark on firefighters, family, and friends alike.
Born in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Morris and Mary Denton Sr., Sam grew up embracing the energy of his hometown. A graduate of Manual High School, he channeled his drive into a path of public service and personal pursuits. His world revolved around thrilling activities like gliding across roller rinks, carving down snowy slopes, and restoring classic cars, each reflecting his zest for motion and mechanical mastery. Sam's journey wove together dedication to duty with moments of pure exhilaration, shaping a narrative of resilience and joy.
Joining the Indianapolis Fire Department on October 1, 1969, Sam rose to become a pivotal figure in local firefighting circles. He spearheaded the effort to host the World Police & Fire Games in Indianapolis, journeying to Australia, California, Canada, and Sweden to make it happen. As Local 416 President and Treasurer, a board member for the GIFCU, and a Trustee on the IFD Pension Board serving as Pension Secretary, his leadership strengthened support systems for his fellow firefighters. He capped his career retiring on May 1, 2005, as Executive Officer for Battalion 13 C Shift.
Family & Loved Ones
Sam poured his energy into nurturing connections that spanned generations, from lively gatherings with his children—Keith (Joey), Steven (Trisha), Teresa McDonough (David), and Jason Stroup (Kelly)—to proud moments with grandchildren Joshua Denton, Jennifer Huff, Reagan Stroup, and Collin Stroup. Though he had said goodbye earlier to siblings Phil Denton, Phyllis Weiser, Debbie Ramsey, and Alice Coddington, his steadfast loyalty to the Firefighters Brotherhood mirrored the fierce protectiveness he extended to his own kin, always the reliable anchor in times of challenge.
Remembered by Friends & Family
Across social feeds, admirers of Sam have woven a tapestry of tributes that spotlight his trailblazing spirit in the fire service and the infectious enthusiasm he brought to every rink, slope, and garage project.