Obituary - Glen Sampson

Glen Sampson Was A Pioneer Genesee Businessman

Glen Sampson, the son of pioneers of the Genesee area, passed away in Spokane Tuesday, February 4, at the age of 92. He had been a Genesee businessman from 1901 until 1966. He was active in civic, business and sports in Genesee until his retirement and was one of the most respected members of the community.

Glen was born April 18, 1882 to Ephriam A. and Eunice Warner Sampson. The family first came to Genesee in 1876, settling in what is known as Old Town. They moved to Lewiston for a very short time where Glen was born and then returned to Genesee to remain. The original family farm is what is now the Becker place next to the Shirrod farm.

He married Emma L. Geltz in 1901. Shortly afterwards Glen turned from farming and opened a barbershop in Genesee. He was Genesee's barber for over 55 years and managed the State Liquor Dispensary for over 32 years, finally retiring at age 84.

He and his wife celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 1951 and she preceded him in death in 1961. He spent the last few years at Madison South Nursing Home in Spokane where he died Feb. 4.

Two daughters survive, Gertrude Gribble, Genesee, and Margaret Bergman, Spokane; three granchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Graveside services were held at the Genesee City Cemetery Saturday, Feb. 8, with the Rev. Bryce McProud, pastor of the Genesee Community Church, officiating. Pallbearers were Don springer, Ronald Geltz, Willard Sampson, Burrell Sampson, Terry Geltz, Joe Kalafus, Tom Boyd and Carl Simons.

Unknown newspaper, February 13, 1975

Last of the Barbershop Gang

Big, friendly Glen Sampson never lacked for companions. This, coupled with the appeal of the barber shop, made his shop a natural "hangout" for many of Genesee's men. It was a special meeting place for several of his contemporaries: Glen was the last to pass on ... they're all gone now, but the town will remember them...Bill Gray, Roy Evans, Bob Emmett, Glen's brother, Virgil, who barbered with him, Roy Emerson and others. There was always laughter, talk, gossip and good-natured joking whenever they all got together. Those who have heard it will never forget the good-natured bantering that went on between Roy Evans and Glen.

Through all his laughter and good humor, Glen had a very kind and understanding side. He had a deep concern for youth and especially under-privileged children. More than one young man had a graduation suit given to him by Glen and few ever forgot his kindness. Many a person can remember that his first hair-cut was a free one.

Sports of all kinds interested Glen and he managed the town baseball team for many years back in the days when town team baseball was almost professional quality. In his younger days he was one of the organizers and members of the hunting club in Genesee.

For me, personally, the barbershop was a mecca of information. Glen and Virgil could recall accurately just about anything you needed to know about the history of the town. I know many haircuts were delayed because I would go over to ask a question and Glen would stop his work to patiently explain exactly how and why a certain indicent in Genesee history had come to pass.

Glen was a kind and understanding man and was always a gentleman in the true sense of the word. He was a friend to me and an asset to the community. From here on, whenever I hear anyone say "they don't make things like they use to," I'll think of Glen Sampson ... they aren't making men like that anymore, either.
--Bill

Unknown newspaper, (no date)
Transcribed by Jill Leonard Nock

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