DR JOHN W SAMPSON – CLASS OF 1965

DR JOHN W SAMPSON – CLASS OF 1965

Sampson, Dr John W. of Ada, Michigan

1942 – 2015

Sampson, Dr. John W. Ada Dr. John W. Sampson, age 72, passed away Wednesday, November 4, 2015 at his home surrounded by family.

John was the son of the late Winifred and Andrew Sampson and brother to Margie (Ray) and Shirli. John was raised in Birmingham and began his teaching career in Bloomfield Hills.

He proudly served his country as a captain in the U.S. Army. He graduated with degrees from Western Michigan University, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Wayne State, and the University of Michigan, where he earned his Ph.D. On June 14, 1975. 

He was united in marriage to Sally, his beloved wife of 40 years. They shared a love of education, their deep Christian Science faith, traveling, and most of all, family. John made a big difference in the lives of many students during nearly three decades as an administrator within Kentwood Public Schools, including tireless work in the Advanced Placement Program.

He was a loyal volunteer at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, fueled by his love of history. He cherished time spent with his children Peter John Sampson (Dinah) and Jennifer Wynn Thiermann (Andrew) and grandchildren Sloane and Tate. He captured all that he loved from behind the lens as an avid photographer. He will be dearly missed.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 12th at the Metcalf & Johnkhoff Funeral Home, from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. with a memorial service to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the First Church of Christ, Scientist, 1501 Plainfield Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505 or the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, 303 Pearl St. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504.