Morris “Tuff” Samuelson, age 80, passed away at his home in Evanston, on July 17. He was born on Oct. 30, 1929 in Milliken, Colo., the son of Frank and Marie Samuelson.

Tuff graduated from Evanston High School in 1948, excelling in athletics and studies. He then attended the University of Wyoming as a scholar-athlete, where he continued to excel in his basketball career as a co-captain of the 1952 Cowboy’s Skyline Conference Champion team as well as earning All Conference and All American honors.

Tuff married his high school sweetheart, Arlene Zlomke, on Dec. 30, 1952, at the Evanston United Methodist Church. Tuff and Arlene then traveled to Fort Benning, Ga. for jump school training. Tuff concluded his active duty with the U.S. Army 101st Airborne, at Fort Campbell, Ky., as a first lieutenant in 1954.

His career path included teaching and coaching at Evanston High School, concluding with retirement after 38 years from the Union Pacific Railroad including numerous assignments.

Tuff enjoyed fishing, hunting, golfing, and his many critters, but perhaps his number one affiliation and commitment to the University of Wyoming Athletics. His many associations include being a member of the Evanston Baptist Church, BPO Elks, AFAM No. 4, York Rite, Shriners, The University of Wyoming Alumni Association, Cowboy Joe Club, Purple Sage Golf Club and the U.S. Army Reserves, where he obtained the rank of captain.

He is survived by his wife, Arlene Samuelson, of Evanston; children, Maureen (Michael) Smith, of Evanston; Frank (Mary) of Green River; and grandchildren, Charlie, Kelley (Dustin), and Logan; and great-grandchildren, Jade and Madison Powers.

Memorial services to celebrate his life will be held at Crandall Funeral Home at 2 p.m. on July 22. Graveside services with military honors will follow the memorial services at the Evanston Cemetery.

Tuff Samuelson - No. 8; Always a Cowboy.

Arrangements are under the direction of Crandall Funeral Home, Evanston.

For the complete article see the 07-23-2010 issue.

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