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.

Thoughts from Cindy

I've attempted writing a blog entry a couple of times, but had a hard time figuring out what to write. I went on a walk this evening and enjoyed the bright pink clouds as the sun was setting, and I kept thinking about how much I wish Samson were still here. So, I just wanted to write down a few things I was thinking about.

I remember the first time I met Samson. It must have been the winter break of 1996 or 1997. He came up to SJ to visit my sister Tracy while they were in college. I remember wondering to myself, "who is this guy!?". He had that big floppy hair still! :) I got to know Samson over years of Thanksgivings, Christmases, summers, various celebrations, and just hanging out. We both were at UCLA at the same time and even hung out from time to time when Tracy wasn't around (I was in undergrad and he was in dental school). I learned that Samson was smart, friendly, generous-spirited, enthusiastic and fun.

The funniest thing I remember about Samson was this time that I had this cool diskette case that I bought at a office supply store. He said that he really needed one and he asked if I would give it to him. It was the year that the Dixie Chicks came out with the CD with the hit "Ready to Run" and I happened to have it playing in the background. I told him, "if you learn the words to this song and sing it, you can have it." Samson, being so determined, did it! He actually sang the Dixie Chicks. It was hilarious. He was such a good sport and made me laugh so hard. He didn't care about how obnoxious I was being, he just wanted me to have a good laugh. I'm laughing and crying at the same time just thinking about it right now.

Another favorite memory of Samson is the time we went to Bryce Canyon together. It was just me, Tracy and Samson. We met in Vegas and drove to Bryce Utah together. We hiked, rode horses, and took pictures in front of every vista point sign. Bryce Canyon is one of the most beautiful places I've ever been. There are beautiful red rock formations and canyons. Samson and I had the same point and shoot Canon camera, and he suggested, "Let's have a photo contest! At the end of the trip Tracy can judge who took the best photo at Bryce!" I experienced Samson's competitive side and it was so fun. We had a great time enjoying the scenery and snagging photo opportunities from each other. We each literally took hundreds of (the same) photos. Perhaps this is why I think Bryce is one of the best places to visit. We had a wonderful time.

I think about Samson many times a day. I can't help but miss him and I often wonder where he is now and what he's doing.

That's it for now.