Sam began his journey in barbering in 1958 at Barber College in Pasadena, graduating just a year later. His first job was at Alhambra Barber Shop on Main Street, but his passion for the craft pushed him to the San Fernando Valley, where he pursued advanced hairstyling education. Once he had attended every school he could find, Sam began teaching razor cutting and hairstyling for the international organization Roffler.

Though he was a skilled instructor, Sam realized his heart was in serving his community. He returned to Alhambra and opened his first barbershop with his brother-in-law at Crawford’s Corner. In 1969, Sam opened his own shop on Main Street, where he cut hair for over 30 years. As the city evolved, Sam relocated three times before finally settling at our current location: 1103 E. Main Street.

Sam was more than just a barber — he was a community servant. He supported over 40 local charities and generously gave haircuts in people’s homes and hospital rooms, always refusing payment or tips. Whether it was 4:00 AM or late into the evening, it wasn’t unusual to find Sam cutting hair while organizing food drives, toy drives, or selling Girl Scout cookies.

Though Sam has passed on, his spirit and commitment to service live on through every haircut we give. At Sam’s Barbershop, we’re proud to carry forward the values he built this business on: quality, care, and community.