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David Samuel Eismann, 76

Coeur d'Alene Press | UPDATED 11 years, 8 months AGO
| April 1, 2014 9:55 AM

Coeur d’Alene attorney Samuel Eismann passed away on the morning of March 17, 2014, at his lake home in Bayview, Idaho.

Sam was born on April 24, 1937, and was raised by his parents in Oregon. He spent much of his childhood in Neskowin, Ore., loved the ocean, and would return to Neskowin many times throughout his life.

Sam attended Lakeside private school in the Seattle area, and went on to attend the University of Idaho and University of Idaho Law School. While in school he became a member of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity, and just celebrated his 50th year of membership. On June 20, 1964, Sam married Penelope White, and they would have celebrated their 50th anniversary in June.

Sam was admitted to the Idaho State Bar and practiced law until the time of his death. He was passionate about the law, and will be remembered for his aggressive pursuit of justice and his thorough preparation for any proceeding he faced. One of his cornerstone cases was his defense of former Shoshone County Sheriff Frank Crnkovich, which was a case that brought him much pride. Aside from practicing matters of general law, Sam specialized in insurance defense and spent the majority of his time in that arena. In his professional career, Sam served as a state legislator and a Deputy United States Attorney General, and was admitted to practice in the United States Supreme Court. Prior to his service of his state and community, Sam served his country in the United States Army. He was also a member of numerous professional organizations.

Sam had a great passion for his family. He was a lifelong Seattle Seahawks fan and finally got to see them win a Super Bowl. He enjoyed golfing, traveling, antique hunting and his time as a private pilot. Sam was passionate about the Oregon Coast, and loved being at the lake in Bayview where he spent his final days.

Sam was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Willa Eismann. He is survived by his wife, Penelope Eismann, his children: Mimi TenEyck, Patrick Eismann, Treva Davis, Curtis Eismann and Eric Eismann; brother and sister-in-law, Christian and Bonnie Eismann; brother-in-law and sister-in-laws Peter and Treva White, and Timothy and Beverly White, of the Seattle area; as well as 10 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Sam was a wonderful husband, father and friend, and his passion and loyalty will be missed by the many he touched personally and professionally.

At his request, there was no memorial service. Sam will spend eternity in the Neskowin, Oregon, area where he had many wonderful memories spanning his entire life. The family would like to thank our many friends and family for their support during this difficult time.