It's the life in your years."
-Abraham Lincoln
John Carlson Sample (Jack) passed away January 14, 2012 after a brief illness. He was born May 24, 1926 to Tecla and John Sample in Superior, Wisconsin. He was preceded in death by his younger brother, Richard.
Upon graduating from high school in Superior, Wisconsin, Jack enlisted in the U.S. Naval Air Corps during WWII. He was assigned to the officer training program at Northwestern University. After his discharge from the Navy, Jack completed his teacher training program at Superior State University and began his distinguished teaching career.
Jack married his beloved wife, Marjorie, in 1950 and began a wonderful 61-year marriage. In 1951, Jack was drafted into the U.S. Army during the Korean War, where he was selected for the Army's Counter-Intelligence Corps. He served at the Presidio in San Francisco. After his discharge, he accepted a teaching position at Modesto High School, which would last for 33 years until his retirement in 1987.
Jack is survived by his wife, Marjorie Anderson Sample, his daughters Susan Sample Savage, Sharon Sample and Joanne Sample, sons-in-law Steve Tye and Dan Savage, and beloved grandsons Johnathon Sample-Cruz, Sean Savage, and Colin Savage.
Jack will be remembered by hundreds as a dedicated educator and mentor. Jack loved to teach and creatively engaged his students with his love of U.S. History and American Government. Known at Modesto High as "the Voice of the Panthers," he announced at football and baseball games from 1967 through 1987. He was awarded a lifetime membership in the PTA. He was the advisor for the Key Club for 15 years.
Jack was an active member of the Emanuel Lutheran Church since 1954. He served on the Altar Guild, the church board and contributed to the church services as an usher and through his readings.
Jack's spirit will always live in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know him.
A memorial celebration of Jack's life will be held at Emanuel Lutheran Church at 324 College Ave., Modesto, CA (the corner of College and Stoddard) on Friday, January 20, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers or other remembrances, the family requests with gratitude that memorial contributions be directed to the Emanuel Lutheran Church or to Community Hospice, 4368 Spyres Way, Modesto, CA 95356.
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