Obituary
Samuel Lon Nail
Honoring the Life of Sam Nail
Samuel Lon Nail, 44, passed away on August 15, 2026, leaving behind a legacy built on deep faith, calloused hands, and a heart completely devoted to his family.
Born on September 11, 1981, in Oshkosh, Nebraska, he was the son of Harry T. Nail, Jr. and Elizabeth Snyder. He grew up in Sheridan, Wyoming and Wagoner, Oklahoma. He spent his childhood hunting, fishing, camping, and riding horses with his family and friends.
On September 10, 2019, he married his loving wife, Nicole. Together, they shared 9 wonderful years together, building a life rooted in love, adventures and dedication to family.
Sam dedicated over 20 years to his career as a Railway Conductor at BNSF Railway where he was highly respected for his work ethic and expertise.
If you knew Sam, you knew a modern renaissance man and a relentless jokester. He loved to keep everyone around him on their toes; you never quite knew if he was giving you facts or just fooling you. His sharp wit paired perfectly with his curious mind. Sam was always researching something new, ready to dive into deep discussions about current events, history, or economics. He was a true jack-of-all-trades who could seamlessly transition from fixing the family car to canning fresh vegetables.
Sam was happiest in the open air, whether he was swimming the ocean, camping in the mountains, spending time at the family cabin in northern Minnesota, or exploring his beloved land in South Dakota. He looked forward to every chance he got to tinker with or drive his 1981 Toyota FJ, with his girls and dog Maizey riding alongside. He was a man of diverse interests who enjoyed the pursuit of unique collections and held a sharp, knowledgeable mind for long-term investments.
His greatest joy, however, was being a dad to his three girls. He wasn’t just a parent; he was their playmate. Whether it was building forts and Legos, outdoor adventures, or snuggling and watching a movie, Sam was the first one to get down on the floor to play. He dreamed of a life on a small cattle ranch—a place with endless room for his daughters to run wild and free.
Sam is survived by his wife, Nicole; his three sweethearts, Raelyn, Vada, and Braidey; his mother, Elizabeth Snyder; and his siblings, Sara Branchcomb (Nathan), Joshua Nail (Jessica), and Chance Nail (Prestina). He was preceded in death by his father, Harry T. Nail, Jr., his grandparents Harry Sr. and Jean Nail, Alvin (Snick) and Belva Snyder, and his dearest friend Stephen M. Gaspers.
Sam lived by an unshakeable moral compass, loving God deeply and fiercely standing up for exactly what he believed in, no matter what. His spirit lives on in the deep values he instilled in his daughters, the dreams and ideas he shared, and the fierce, protective love and laughter he left in the hearts of his family.
A memorial service to celebrate Sam’s life will be held at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Onalaska, Wisconsin on his 45th birthday, Friday September 11th, 2026. Visitation at 11:30am, Funeral at 12:30pm and a luncheon to follow.
Coulee Region Cremation Group is assisting the family with arrangements.
What a great picture of Sam! That’s the smile he came with on his face at drop off and pick up for the girls. Sometimes one would be hanging on tight before he could leave daycare but a hand off and a chuckle and out the door he went. He will always be one of my “favorite “ daycare Dads❤️ Sam kept me on my toes as well because I never quite knew if he was joking or serious then that smile would appear and then I knew he was teasing. Sending so much love to Nicole and the girls and family at this time.
Deeply saddened to hear of his passing. Sam was such a great person, always enjoyed working with him here in WYO. Will never forget his hard work & devilish grin!! Prayers to your family.
Nicole and girls, you lost a terrific guy and we are so sorry for your loss. Please feel free to come by and visit if you ever get back to Gillette.
I always enjoyed working with Sam. He was a good man to be around.
You were a good man and will be missed. Your Grandpa Nail was very proud of all you kids.
Love You
Uncle Ray and Aunt Betsey
I got to know Sam while working the switchers in Gillette. He always had a story to share and loved to joke around. A very hard worker as well and cared about those switch jobs. I enjoyed talking to him about his property in the black hills and seeing him when he would stop in a couple times a year with the littles as they loaded up on rocks as well as a few phone calls. I will miss him greatly and my condolences to his family.
I am so deeply sorry for your loss and thoughts and condolences and prayers to Sam’s family and friends. Sam was very enjoyable to work with.
You will be missed Sam.
Thinking of you all and sending lots of love your way 🤍
My very deepest sympathies and prayers for your loss of Sam. I dispatched him when he worked out of Gillette. He was always so kind and respectful. A true gentleman to work with.
We were heartbroken to hear about Sam. We have known him since he was 15 years old. He was always polite and a gentleman. He held a special place with our family.
Our Condolences
Brenda and Mark Ashbrener
Wagoner, ok
good by Sam, until we meet again