John Vernon Bernhard Sampson, age 83 of Thief River Falls went home to be with The Lord on January 17, 2018. He was preceded in death by his son Greg, parents Harold and Alma (Johnson) Sampson of Crookston, MN, brother Marvin Sampson, and his grandfather, the honorable Bernhard Sampson, a founder of Crookston, MN.  John attended Crookston public schools, graduated from Central High School in 1952, proudly served in the U.S. Army and later graduated from The University of North Dakota with a business degree in 1963.  He worked for many years for Swift & Co., Gordon-Fleming Food Brokers, and began his own brokerage Sampson & Associates in 1977 until later retiring.  John serverd as the Post Commander from 2003-2005. He was a member of the Color Guard, 40 et 8  and other committee's with the Thief River Falls American Legion Post 117. John served as the 9th District Commander from 2009-2010. and enjoyed communicating with members, and serving in their various functions throughout each year.  He also enjoyed many years of long walks, skating and coaching youth hockey, and watching his favorite sports teams, such as The Vikings and Sioux hockey.

He is survived by his loving wife Beverly, daughters Susan (Gary) Sorum of Fargo, ND, Tricia (Phil) Bates of Carver, MN, sons David Sampson of Thief River Falls and William (Bill) Sampson of Fargo, ND, five grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. Celebration of Life Service will be held on Monday, January 22, 2018 at 11:00 am at River of Life Church in Thief River Falls.