Charles Kenneth Samples

Charles K. Samples 1923 – 2017 Charles Kenneth Samples, age 94, passed away peacefully in the early morning of Wednesday, June 7, 2017 at Baptist Hospital with family by his side. Charles was born in Buford, GA on June 5, 1923 to Chester and Gertrude (Phillips) Samples. He lived an idyllic childhood on a farm playing and helping his family tend to the gardens and the animals, especially his pet calf, Bo Peep. Charles was a veteran of WWII and Vietnam. After landing in Normandy, he fought his way valiantly on foot to Germany where he fought honorably in the Battle of the Bulge. He lost many friends and fellow soldiers there. In October of 1970, the days of serving his country came to an end and he retired from the Army as a Command Sergeant Major. He was awarded the Commendation Medal, Meritorious Service Medal and Bronze Star. While serving in Stuttgart, Germany, he met and married the love of his life, Johanna Lang. Charles (Pops) and Johanna (Hanni) never ceased to honor each other with the unparalleled respect and love they shared. Their life together was nothing short of a love story. Charles was a loving husband to his wife, as well as a father, best friend, and hero to his two children. Those who knew him can only be blessed to have known such a kindhearted and beautifully righteous man. The love he had for his Heavenly Father was profoundly genuine. He enjoyed telling captivating stories about his life experiences, reading often, and watching old westerns. Charles’ soft voice and humble, gentle nature will never be forgotten. The love he so openly poured out to all will live on in the hearts of his loved ones. His bright smile will forever be missed. Mr. Samples is survived by his two children, Steven (Stasha) Samples and Karen (Larry) Knight; 10 grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren. Services to honor the life of Charles Samples will be held at Faith Chapel North in Cantonment, FL on Monday, June 12th. Visitation will begin at 9am with services to follow at 10am. Pastor Mike Mashburn is officiating. He will be laid to rest beside his wife at Barrancas National Cemetery. FAITH CHAPEL FUNERAL HOME NORTH, 1000 S Hwy 29, Cantonment, FL is in charge of arrangements. You may express your condolences online at www.fcfhs.com

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Charles Kenneth Samples

June 5, 1923 - June 7, 2017