Joe Sampson

Joseph R. "Joe" Sampson, 26, a resident of Fergus Falls, died Saturday, May 3, 2008 at Lake Region Hospital in Fergus Falls, surrounded by his family and friends. He was born July 16, 1981, in Fergus Falls, the son of Steven and Julie (Fladhammer) Sampson. He was baptized and confirmed at First Lutheran Church, and grew up in Fergus Falls, graduating from high school in 2000. After high school Joe worked at several jobs - mainly to support his hobbies. Joe had a love for life. He loved working on his trucks, 4-wheelers, dirt bikes, mudding - and getting dirty. You could always find Joe under a truck. He also loved hanging out with his friends and family, and was loved by all. In June of 2006 Joe was diagnosed with a brain tumor and he faced his illness with the same determination that he lived life with. In 2005 Joe bought his first Harley and in 2006 his family and friends organized a motorcycle ride - "Dough 4 Joe" - initially to benefit Joe, and it will now continue as Joe's legacy to benefit children battling cancer. Preceding him in death were his grandmother, Rhoda Andrews, and his uncle, Larry Dick. Survivors include his mom, Julie (Stan) Johnson of Fergus Falls, his dad, Steven (Mary) Sampson of Fergus Falls; four sisters: Angie (Ben) Schultz of Omaha, Nebraska, and Missy Sampson, Megan Johnson, and Stephanie Sampson all of Fergus Falls; five brothers: Anthony Johnson, Alex Johnson, Ryan Johnson, Phillip Bernstetter (Robbie Stadum) and Joey Bernstetter (Amber Lerbakken) all of Fergus Falls; his grandparents: Bill and Arlyss Sampson, Art and Delores Fladhammer and Jack Andrews, all of Fergus Falls, Bill and Mary Johnson of St. Paul, and Tony and Margaret Roggenkamp of Hewitt; nieces: Kylie Schultz, Ava Schultz, Andreya Lockett and Cyntreya Lockett; nephews: Darius Lockett, Carter Bernstetter and Izic Albright; a foster sister, Barb Obowa; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Joe will be greatly missed by all who loved him. Visitation: 5-7 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home with a 6:45 p.m. prayer service, and resumes one hour prior to the service at the church. Service: 1 p.m. Friday at First Lutheran Church in Fergus Falls Clergy:     Reverends Saul Stensvaag and Matt Philaya Interment: First Lutheran North Cemetery in Fergus Falls Funeral Home: Olson Funeral Home in Fergus Falls Memorials are preferred in lieu of flowers. Condolences may be sent online at www.olsonfuneralhome.com