Obituary of Charles Leo Sampson

Saddened by loss yet grateful for the gift of a wonderful Dad, we announce his peaceful passing on Wednesday, November 9, 2022, at the Richmond Villa, St. Peter’s. Charles Leo Sampson was born on April 28, 1923, to the late Henry T. and Ada (Martell) Sampson. Following in the footsteps of his dad and older siblings Charlie began fishing until he landed a job with the Department of Highways as a Grader/Snow Plow operator, a career that spanned nearly thirty years. Throughout much of Richmond County Dad cleared countless kilometers of roadway (And a few Driveways) and encountered a multitude of friends. There was the odd occasion when children got to ride with Charlie in the grader. Many late evenings clearing snow found him in some remote areas however there was always an outside light blinking as a sign for Dad to drop in for a hot cup of tea or something a tad bit stronger depending on the elements of the weather. Dad was never idle and knew his responsibility as the main provider for a large family. He was always interested in whatever tasks or projects the boys were involved with and we could depend on his support. In describing Dad’s personality, one must immediately smile. He had such a quick wit and could relate stories and tall tales like no one else. How often we could hear Mom say “That’s enough Charlie”. If someone was having a bad day Dad could change that mood in a few short minutes. Dad was an active member of Holy Guardian Angels Parish serving as an Usher and a member of the Parish Finance and Management Committee. He was a founding member of the L’Ardoise Men’s Club and a Life Member of the L’Ardoise Seniors Jolly Club. After Mom’s passing in 2012 Dad made regular visits to Tim Horton’s in St. Peter’s and attended 45’s card plays in the area. His sidekick was Arthur Mombourquette and our family remains grateful for Arthur’s friendship. From an early age, Dad was a lively step dancer and clicked his heels at many concerts in the Strait Area. He often said that on his arrival at the pearly gates he hoped to be greeted by Winston Fitzgerald playing “Fishers Hornpipe”. Dad is survived by his sons: Terry (Lana), Aulds Cove, Melvin/Joe (Sandi) Loon Lake, Saskatchewan, Stephen, Arnie (Judy), Darrell (Paula), Lower L’Ardoise, Dean, Blake (Kelly), Halifax, Timmy, Edmonton; daughter, Lisa MacEachern, Lower Sackville; 17 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren; one sister, Eva Sampson, Lower L’Ardoise. Charlie was predeceased by his loving wife and soulmate of 66 years, Mildred Murphy; son Bernie, and a grandson, Gavin; brothers Martin, John, George, Fred, Alonzo; sisters Margaret Clannon, Mary Catherine Eagen, and Beatrice MacDonald. Dad remained at home until 21 months ago when he became a resident of Richmond Villa. We are grateful to the various health care services which were a tremendous support to Dad and our family. Thank you to our Fire Department, First Responders, EHS, and Paramedics, Richmond County Home Support Services, staff at Strait Richmond, Cape Breton Regional and St. Martha’s Regional, and Richmond Villa along with our wonderful friends and neighbors in our community. Visitation for the late Charles Sampson will take place on Sunday, November 13, 2022, from 2:00 – 8:00 P.M. at Holy Guardian Angels Parish Funeral Home, L’Ardoise. Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, November 14th at 11:00 A.M. at Holy Guardian Angel Parish, L’Ardoise with con-celebrants, Father Barrett-Claire Johnson and Father John Yake. Burial will take place in the Holy Guardian Angels Cemetery, L’Ardoise. Following the committal, a reception will be held at the L’Ardoise Community Center. Memorial donation made be made to the L’Ardoise Social Action to support our Food Bank operations. Tributes, words of comfort, and memories of Charlie may be shared with the family at www.chboudreau.com Funeral arrangements are entrusted to C.H. Boudreau Funeral Home, Arichat