Farewell, Uncle Samson

Samson was the very best uncle a boy or girl could ask for. We will all feel a huge void due to his departure, but I know Jackson (almost 6) and Cassidy (almost 5) will miss their only uncle tremendously.

Whenever Jackson had a loose tooth or lost a tooth, his first reaction was, "I can't wait to tell Uncle Samson." When Jackson would see Samson, he's immediately ask "what's different about me?" Of course, Samson would always notice. Jackson often had questions about teeth and I'd say, "That's a question for Uncle Samson." Uncle Samson would always have a perfect answer, but especially perfect for the understanding a 5 year old. Samson was always so caring and so loving with his neice and nephew.

We spent most Thanksgivings together. One Thanksgiving, Samson stayed up half the night assembling a Lego toy that Grandma had purchased for Jackson so that Jackson would be able to play with it in the morning. When it was done, Samson snuck into Jackson's room and put it where he wouldn't miss it. Jackson couldn't have been more delighted, but I don't think he realized the amount of work, effort and time that went into assembling that toy.

Samson introduced Jackson and Cassidy to the iPhone. When we'd go out for meals and they'd get bored, Samson would let them play on his phone. They loved it and couldn't wait to play with it. Now. they are both professional little iPhone users. Samson also passed on his love of video games to Jackson and Cassidy by introducing them to his Wii. I know we will think of him each time we play.

Cassidy is usually very shy around other people, but especially men. She took to Samson immediately - she was affectionate with him, sat on his lap and gave him lots of hugs. When I asked her what she thinks about when she thinks of Uncle Samson, her response was "love."

Goodbye, Uncle Samson, we miss you so, so much. We especially miss your genuine smiles, your kindness, your humor, your gentle heart, your generosity and your goofiness. May you rest in peace and may we meet you again in another lifetime.