Earl K. Sampson, 88, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2014, at St. Mark’s Lutheran Home.

He was born March 28, 1926, in Story City, Iowa, to John and Minnie (Tye) Sampson. Earl grew up in Story City, Iowa, and enlisted in the U.S. Navy after high school. He served his country for two years, doing seven tours of duty on the USS Bond. On Aug. 10, 1945, Earl and Rhea Zeller were united in marriage at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin. He made his living working at Hormel Foods for 46 years. He served in the Boy Scouts for many years, and was an all-around handyman. Earl taught himself to repair most anything. A member of Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Austin, Earl also collected Lionel trains, enjoyed photography, and was an accomplished artist.

Survivors include his wife Rhea of Austin; his son Kavin (Karla) Sampson of Kankakee, Illinois, daughter Theresa Holbrook of Fort Collins, Coloroado, son Mark (Julie) Sampson of Rochester; eight grandchildren: Laura, Amber, Harmony, Nathan, Jasmine, Abigail, Zebulon, and Gideon; one great-grandchild; his sister Vivian Mix of Tracy, Minnesota; many nieces, nephews; other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents John and Minnie Sampson; and two brothers: Milton Sampson and Harold Sampson.

Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 11, 2014, at the Worlein Funeral Home Chapel in Austin with Pastor Glenn Monson officiating. Visitation was held at Worlein Funeral Home from 9 to 11 a.m. on Saturday prior to the service. There was a private family interment with military honors by American Legion Post 91. Memorials can be directed Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Austin. Services prearranged and performed by Worlein Funeral Home of Austin. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.