Melvin Sampson

Melvin Sampson passed away peacefully with his family by his side on April 24, 2012; he was 90. Mel was born in Massachusetts on January 13, 1922 to Jacob and Alice Sampson. As a child during the Great Depression, Mel contributed to the family income by delivering circulars with his younger sister, Charlotte. Caring for his loved ones would become a lifelong mission. He served his country in the Army as a medic during WWII. He helped his brother become a pharmacist, and later became one himself. He cared for both his mother and father through their respective and lengthy illnesses. He chose to not marry, and instead, took Charlotte and her daughters under his wing following their relocation to California, and an unforeseen divorce. He, in fact, became a father figure to both girls, following them to California to a new home and job to help raise them. Mel beamed with as much pride as any biological parent for family accomplishments, and felt as much pain during illness and other set-backs. Mel was hired as the chief pharmacist at McClellan Air Force Base. There, he continued his work in the medical field and served many families in a career that lasted over 48 years. He was much loved and respected by his colleagues and patients. His humor-filled monthly newsletters were eagerly anticipated by the staff. He was a tremendous source of support in helping Charlotte care for her ailing husband; because of Mel’s help, her late husband was able to remain at home until his final days. Before his health declined Mel enjoyed attending services at Congregation Beth Shalom in Sacramento. He enjoyed dancing with Charlotte, and they were often compared to Fred Astaire and Ginger Rodgers; in later years, they took up square dancing, creating new memories on the dance floor. Mel is survived by his sister Charlotte Yde of Sacramento and his nieces Elaine and Felicia, as well as his canine companions, Sophie, Nudnick, and Lacy. Mel was quiet and compassionate. He demonstrated his love softly through his caring nature. His loved ones never departed his house without these words, “take care how you go.” We now wish Mel the same. There will be a service on Monday, April 30, 2012 at 12:00pm at Mount Vernon Memorial Park in Fair Oaks, CA.