Ivan (Don) Sampson

CUYAHOGA FALLS - Ivan (Don) Sampson went home to Jesus on December 10, 2024, at age 88.

Don was born to Carl and Pearl on February 16, 1936, in Akron, Ohio. Don met his wife, Mary, at a German American Club dance event in 1966. They married on December 10, 1966. Their union was truly a match made in heaven, and they were given 58 beautiful years together.

In addition to being a dedicated and loving husband and father, Don also loved dancing the night away with his wife, Mary, at weddings and celebrations.

Don came to the Lord in 1981, and for the rest of his life, Don held an unwavering faith in God, which he shared with those who surrounded him. He was also a dedicated member of Victory Life Church in Stow, Ohio.

He worked 38 years at Kent Machine in Stow, Ohio, as a highly skilled journeyman machinist. He was known by his workmates as "Yogi." He was also very handy and could fix nearly anything.

He loved sports and was a football player at Stow High School. He also loved to play basketball and softball and was active in Silver Leagues. He became an avid Buckeye (OSU) fan, beginning with his daughter’s attendance at the school in the late 80s. In addition, he loved to watch the Cincinnati Bengals football team and attend Cleveland Indians baseball games. Some of his favorite hobbies included bowling, fishing, and ping-pong.

He loved the beach, soaking up the sunshine, and going on vacation to Florida.

He was also known for the art of finding “the deal” when purchasing cars. He was very shrewd and effective in these endeavors.

Don joins his parents, Carl and Pearl, his brothers, Denver and Bruce, and his sisters, Chris, Lee, and Ruth in Heaven.

Preceded in death by his daughter, Shelly Witherspoon, and grandson, Billy Martel, Don is survived by his wife of 58 years, Mary; children, Victoria, William, Valerie, Donald, and Marla; grandchildren, Christopher and John; sister, Patti, and many loving family members, friends, and grand dogs.

Pastor Matthew Skifstad will conduct funeral service Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at 11 AM, at Victory Life Church, 3833 Hudson Drive, Stow 44224, where friends may call from 10 AM until time of service. Burial Stow Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association , 289 S. Union Street, Akron, OH 44304, or please visit alz.org