Michael Ray Samples

Michael was born on June 15, 1952, in Clinton, Kentucky. He is preceded in death by his father, Ray Woodson Samples.

Mike graduated from Highland High School, where he met the love of his life, Susan Berry, whom he married in 1972. Together, they built their life in Highland, raising three children in a home they made their own. With Mike’s remarkable skill as a craftsman, there was nothing he couldn’t build, fix, or improve. Their home became a gathering place filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories shared with family and friends.

When he wasn’t at home with his family, he found fulfillment working with his hands as a mechanic at the EJ & E Railroad (later the CN Railroad). A natural leader, Mike earned the respect of his coworkers through his skill, dedication, and willingness to lend a hand. He formed lifelong friendships on the job and was happy to be surrounded by those who shared his love for hard work and craftsmanship.

After retiring from the CN Railroad in 2012, Mike found joy in traveling with his wife, Sue, riding his Harley, and spending time with family and friends. His meticulously maintained garage was his favorite retreat, and he was always ready to lend a hand in diagnosing any car trouble for those he loved. He was the first to ask how you were doing and looked for ways to help anyone he may have encountered.

Mike’s absence is felt most deeply by his beloved wife of 52 years, Susan; his children, Jennifer (Keith) Carstensen, Laura (Rob) VanHoose, and Michael (Betty) Samples; his grandchildren, Ashley, Jake, Nicole, Hattie, Clark and Margot; his great-grandchildren, Davy and Layla; his mother, Sue Samples and his brothers Rick (Leslie) Samples and Greg (Janet) Samples as well as many loved nieces and nephews.

Services for Michael will be Private.