Samuel Edward “Sam” Argo passed away on July 15 at the age of 73. The son of the late Earl Edward and Pearl Davidson Argo, found joy in family, fire service and farming.
Growing up in the heart of Milton, Argo called Milton home his entire life, rooted in the things that gave him joy. However, his quick wit, laugh and love of life will be remembered throughout Sussex County and beyond.
Argo graduated from Cape Henlopen High School in 1970, part of the first graduating class of the consolidation of Milton, Lewes and Rehoboth. Immediately after graduation, Argo entered the masonry trade, working at George Chappell Masonry before opening his own business, Sammy Argo Masonry.
Masonry was not the only career for Argo, however, as his love for the land and farming became a huge part of his life. One family tradition that he continued over the years was growing pole lima beans. In the 1970s, Argo and his wife, Jeany, opened their first produce stand in Milton, Amy Sue Produce. They eventually took over Bozie’s Produce in Dewey Beach, previously owned by Argo’s father-in-law. The couple, along with their two daughters, built a thriving produce business with Argo farming and supplementing the produce stand. The Argo’s retired from the produce business in 2005, but Argo continued to farm more as a hobby.
Argo joined the Milton Fire Company as a junior member in 1969 and was named a lifetime member in 1989. Argo loved firefighting and he served his community until he physically could not attend any longer. Although he served in many roles with the fire department, he was most honored to serve as Chief Engineer. In 2022, he was awarded the honor of Chief Engineer Emeritus.
Not only was Argo known for his dedication to the fire service, but he was also known as the “dumpling cook” for the countless chicken and dumpling dinners served. According to family and friends, “the pot could not leave the stove until he said it was ready!”
Argo is survived by his wife of 54 years, Jeany Furniss Argo, his daughters, Amy Argo Jones and her husband, Finley; Stefani Argo-Larson and her husband, Chip; three grandchildren, Fin Jones IV, Emma Jones as well as Allen Larson and his wife, Rebecca. He is also survived by one great grandchild, Rylynn Larson. His sister, Mary Ann Warrington and her husband, Jim, a niece Staci Warrington, brother-in-law Dale Furniss and his wife, Connie; nephews Dale Jr., Travis and Kyle Furniss also survive him. His well-loved and spoiled pets Ginger, ruby and Sampson survive him as well. Argo is also survived by a son he chose, Kyle Rager, along with many close and special friends.
The family would like to send a special thank you to the loving and supportive hospice staff that helped them care for Argo in his final days.
A funeral service is planned for Sunday, July 20 at 1 PM in the Short Funeral Services Chapel, 416 Federal Street, Milton. Friends and family may visit from 11 to 1 PM. Burial with full fireman’s honors will be in Milton Odd Fellows Cemetery in Milton.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford DE 19963 or the Milton Fire Department 116 Front Street, Milton DE 19968.
