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Rick Davis and Sue Phares Bergstrom regret that we have to report the death of our classmate and friend Mike Sampson.
Mike had a massive heart attack Sunday night October 2nd. He has been living in Florida for since going to University of Florida and becoming a dentist there.
The Davis family enjoyed our visits when we met with Mike a number of times when we visited Marco Island where he had his dentistry practice for years.
As many of you know he has been plagued by many health challenges that kept him from flying in for our 45th and 50th reunions. Mike really lamented not being there for those get togethers and reached out to me to give him updates and pictures after those reunions.
He loved talking and remembering our times together back in the late 60s at Eastmont and Churchill elementary when the Davis’ lived three houses away from the Sampsons in Ridgewood. And then he was with half of us at Wilkins and the on to Churchill high where he excelled at running back and in the classroom.
I want to especially note the remarkable and devoted time Sue has spent with Mike by phone in this last year. Mike really needed a loving companion while he really challenged in so many ways. Sue went beyond what you can imagine to give him support and share stories and most of all laugh. And Sue said their talks gave her much pleasure —but for Mike I am sure it meant the world to him.
May he Rest In Peace, and his memories be a blessing. Once again these passings remind all of us to live life to the fullest.
Mike is survived by his three sisters.
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Bill Kunkel
My condolences to Mike's Family. Mike was a great guy that I knew for several years from junior high to High School. Life is so short, enjoy and have as much fun as you can everyday! God bless you Mike.
Jim Quinn
So many good memories of Mike from Churchill Elementary through CAHS. Great Student, Great Athlete, and just a Great Guy. Rest In Peace My Friend. Rick also told me how wonderful Sue was with Mike up to the end. Funny how some people never change.
Karen Callahan (Myrick)
Oh, my. Mike was my next door neighbor on Ridgewood (We shared the same sledding slopes!) and the very first person to welcome me to these pages when I "joined." I am far from you all in terms of physical distance, but my heart is joined with yours in sadness and grief and hope for the solace that will comfort his family.
Gary Sapp
Sorry to hear about our Good Friend, Mike Sampson. Was in most of our school classes together because of our last Name. Mike would bust on me a good bit, jokingly. Spoke to him recently, I believe on his birthday. Was good connecting with Him. Great Athlete & Friend.
Debra Campbell
My condolences go out to Michael's family and friends.
Pam Freliche (Clatterbuck)
I was saddened to hear of Mike's sudden passing. Fond memories are always cherished. Sending prayers of comfort & strength to his family and friends during the days ahead. Blessings, Pam
Tim Piper
Sorry to hear about Mike.. a solid, great guy. RIP Michael... time to rest my friend. Sue, sounds like you and Rick kept in touch w him through it all... I'm sure he appreciated it !
William Hamer
Sorry to hear about Mike.
Randy Wilson
It is with much sadness that I learned of Mike's death. May God's blessing go to his family.
Noel Squitieri
Mike is one of our classmates I didn't have the opportunity to spend much time with. But I never once heard anything negative about Mike and I really wish I'd gotten to know him. I am truly very deeply sorry. Please accept my sincere condolences to Mike's family anf friends.