It is with deep sadness that MFASC announces the passing of our dear friend and colleague, Sam “Sammy” Bell, who lived 77 years of his best life.
Sam represented MFASC as our President from 1994 – 1996, and was currently serving as a Director on the MFASC Board. In 2014, at SUR/FIN, the National Association of Surface Finishing (NASF) recognized Sam for his outstanding contributions to the industry, and for “singlehandedly educating Congress on the value of the plating process.”
He was more than just a business associate — Sam was a trusted partner, a source of inspiration, a fighter, and a true friend. Over the years, his vision, honesty, and dedication left an indelible mark on everyone that Sam met in the metal finishing industry.
Just before Christmas, Sam spent his last full day surrounded by family and friends at his “Living Celebration of Life” where he reminisced about five Transpac races to Hawaii, one to Tahiti, cruising in Alaska, races to Mexico, countless crossings to his beloved Howlands Landing, and so many desert adventures. He shared stories of adventure and misadventure over his famous mar-garitas and pork loin sandwiches, and traded industrial plating and family stories with loved ones.
Sam Bell was the Vice President of Metal Surfaces Inc. (MSI) in Bell Gardens. MSI was established in 1954 to provide precision plating to the Aviation, Aerospace, Electronic, Interconnect, Military, Automotive, and Medical industries. Its commitment to quality is confirmed by certification to ISO 9001-2015, AS9100 REV D, Nadcap-CP, FAA Repair Station, and IATF 16949. MSI is ITAR certified and able to comply with RoHS, WEE standards when specified. As one of the largest precision plating firms in North America, MSI is approved to provide precision plating by most of the primes. The California facility has over 70,000 square feet, and MSI provides twelve 110-foot reel-to-reel plating lines and a wide range of rack, barrel, and individual plating resources. There is also a growing composite plating department for precision plating on plastics and other non-conductive materials.
Sam truly embodied integrity and kindness and loved his friends and family with his huge heart. Sam spread his infectious laugh wherever he went and always with a twinkle in his eye.
Sam will be deeply missed.
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In lieu of flowers, donations to City of Hope Duarte or the Alamitos Bay Sailing Foundation may be made in his memory.
