Franklin Eugene Samples “Gene”

Reunited with the Lord and his Son.

Born December 3, 1953.

Passed away August 31, 2022.

Gene was born to Gerald & Eldeen (Collins) Samples in Grand Island NE in 1953. Gene was blessed with another mother in 1957 when Gerald married Janett (Speth) Sell.

Gene attended Clatonia Schools and after consolidation he attended Wilber-Clatonia School. He was an avid sports participant in Basketball and Track where he held numerous records for many years.

Gene’s work ethic started while he was a younger man by helping numerous farmers around the Clatonia and Wilber areas.

After Graduation in 1972 he joined the Armed Forces following family members. He joined the United States Air Force in June of 1972 and was Honorably discharged in September of 1974 with a Rank of E3.

In 1975 Gene married Linda Villines and from this union a son was born April 18, 1976 and passed on May 24, 1980.

Gene was well known for his carpentry as well as his roofing skills. He was a son, father, husband, brother, uncle as well as a great uncle and a great great uncle, teacher and a FRIEND to all.

Gene taught many of his nephews as well as siblings how to roof and do some carpentry. He always said to take pride in your work and no one can take that from you.

Gene’s passions were the Lord as well as the Bible. Anything that had to do with the Outdoors was where he wanted to be. Close to the Lord and the beauty he created. Helping his family, friends and the friends he hadn’t met yet was a love of his as well.

Survived by siblings Gary (Linda) Samples, Ed Samples, Jim Samples, Cindy (Allen) Zajicek, Cheryl Bice, Candy Jones, Kevin (Nancy) Samples, Gerald (Shirley) Samples, Chris (David) Lane, Carin Jelinek, Aunt and Uncle along with many Nieces and Nephews as well as large Family of Friends.

Preceded in Death by Son Adin, Parents Gerald & Janett, Mother Eldeen, Brothers Bruce Sell, Robert Sell and Sister Cathy Meyer, nephews Jacob Samples, Dillon Samples.

Gene’s final wishes were to be cremated.

Celebration of Life Saturday, October 15, 2022, at 2:00 pm at the Clatonia Community Center in Clatonia, NE.

Memorials may be given to family for future designation. Please send to:  Candy Jones, 1706 Co. Rd. W Swanton, NE 68445,

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