Thomas Sampeer

Thomas S. Sampeer (hereinafter referred to as “Dad”), of Oakland Township, Michigan passed away on Friday January 6, 2023 after a short battle with cancer. As he did in his 81 years of life, Dad faced his death courageously and head on. His passing was reflective of who he was – gentle, spiritual, peaceful, and surrounded by loved ones.

Dad was born in Detroit, Michigan on May 27, 1941 to Margaret Malcolm Vaughn and Elmer Sampeer. He was the eldest of his siblings and rose to the dubious task of being the “cool big brother” even if that meant little brother, Billy, tagging along on his dates, or shoving little sister, Sandy, into the non-existent backseat of his MG Midgit.

Dad graduated from Cranbrook in 1959 and went on to earn his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the University of Michigan. He excelled in academics and lived his best college life as a member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity. Dad joined the United States Air Force in 1965. He served with honor & distinction until his discharge in 1971 (Dad, I wish I told you more often – thank you for your sacrifice and service).

Dad was introduced to the love of his life, Sara Julian (hereinafter referred to as “Mom” or “Sweetheart”) through mutual friends. He married his Sweetheart on August 21, 1971. Along came Scott in 1977 and Emily (that’s me) in 1980. We were raised in Farmington Hills, Michigan, where our parents built a supportive, secure, and happy home. Dad was committed to ensuring we had the kind of stability he was not afforded growing up. For that, he is our hero.

After a successful career in finance, Dad retired in 2003. He and Mom spent their golden years at the foothills of the Smoky Mountains in the community of Rarity Bay in Vonore, Tennessee. Dad was so fond of the view from their back patio – a long, rolling par five that led to stunning views of Tellico Lake and the Smokies. In 2016, they returned to Michigan for the next phase of life as grandparents.

Dad was a consummate afternoon napper, a lover of Michigan football, a collector of high-end hair products, an enthusiastic traveler (he and mom checked off seeing all 50 states in 2022), and a member of St. Philip’s Episcopal Church. Dad enjoyed chatting with people - family, friends, acquaintances, and even perfect strangers. He was interesting and engaging. He listened. He liked people, and people liked him. I hope he knew how much his kindness radiated and inspired the lives of others.

Tom is survived by Sara, his Sweetheart and loving wife; children Scott (Mary) Sampeer of Marquette, Michigan, and Emily Sampeer Damron of Rochester Hills, Michigan; grandchildren Sawyer and Elin Damron; beloved siblings William (Karen) Howe of Grand Haven, Michigan, and Sandy Sampeer of Portland, Oregon; and many nieces and nephews.

Tom is predeceased by his parents Margaret Malcolm Vaughn and Elmer Sampeer; his brother Alan Sampeer; and his beloved dog, Yahtzee.

Tom’s family welcomes all to attend a memorial service on Saturday February 4, 2023 at St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, located at 100 Romeo Road in Rochester, Michigan. Visitation with the family will begin at 10 a.m. and the service will begin at 11 a.m. A luncheon at the church will immediately follow.

In late May, graveside services will be held at Maple Grove Cemetery in Hudson, Michigan.

Memorial contributions may be made in Tom’s honor to the Disabled American Veterans Charity (dav.org).

Share memories online at www.pixleyfh.com