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- Anne Marie (n?e Robertson) Sampson
May 27, 1941 - November 30, 2025
Anne Marie Sampson (n?e Robertson), age 84, of St. Peters, passed away peacefully at home on November 30, 2025, surrounded by her family and loved ones. Born on May 27, 1941 in French Cove, Anne was the second of four children born to Charles and Alice Robertson. She is predeceased by both parents, youngest brother, Abraham ?, granddaughter Jillian Sampson ?, and great granddaughter Karsyn Varga ?. Anne is lovingly remembered by her husband of 64 years, Gus; their children Scott (Linda Varga) Sampson, Ken (Corinne) Sampson, and Rosalie (John Watt) Sampson. Anne and Gus were blessed with twelve grandchildren ? Nancy McGaw, James Varga, Erik Varga; Ryan Sampson, Aimee Sampson, Quinn (Trevor) Lightbown, Trevor (Hailey) Sampson, Kai (Ashley Stoperski) Sampson, and Liam (Naomie Groves) Sampson; Gareth Watt, Kynan (Sam) Watt; eight great-grandchildren ? Eamon and Rory Watt; Erika, Charlee, Easton, Colton and Dash Varga; Calvin and Riley Kostuk. Surviving siblings include Ralph (Marge) Robertson & Jean (Billy ?) MacDonald, along with a host of nieces and nephews. Before tying the knot, Anne worked as a waitress at the Cozy Corner and later at Kaplan's Department Store in St. Peters. She and Gus began their life together in a modest four-room home in Sampsonville. Twelve years later, they moved to a three-bedroom house overlooking the Bras d'Or Lake with a breathtaking and panoramic view, complete with a homemade slip for Gus's boat? where, according to family legend, every possible saltwater lake fish was caught and eaten. They lived there for 39 years before moving into town on Seabreeze Lane four years ago. Once their children were in junior high and high school, Anne spent several years working at the local Sears Catalogue office. Her truest vocation, though, was that of a homemaker. When she was not tending her garden, preparing meals, or baking something special, she could often be found knitting sweaters, socks, mittens, gloves, and afghans, or sewing clothing and quilts for others. Anne took great joy in these crafts, always accompanied by her warm smile and quiet strength. Summers were frequently spent camping with family and close friends. She and Gus had a special fondness for Whycocomagh Provincial Park, where days were filled with games, evenings with campfires, and trails with adventure. If marshmallows were on the menu, Anne insisted they were roasted to perfection? lightly toasted to a pure golden-brown, never overdone. There was never a shortage of card games at the Sampson household. Whether cribbage, scat, or auction, lively banter and friendly but fierce competition were guaranteed. The teapot seemed never to be empty, and Anne's fresh baking had a way of magically appearing on the kitchen table at just the right moment. For a number of years, four-wheelers became a beloved pastime. Anne and Gus often ventured onto the back trails with friends, pausing along the way to build a small fire and enjoy a snack and a cup of tea. Anne's life was defined by devotion to her family. She and Gus worked tirelessly to support their children in school activities, community events, and competitive sports. Few games or tournaments took place without them cheering proudly from the front row. She touched countless lives with her generous and kind-hearted contributions to the community. Over several years she participated enthusiastically in the Mad Hatters chapter of the Relay for Life out of Arichat. Anne was especially known as Mrs. Claus, often accompanying Gus as Santa for local events during the Christmas season. Their outfits were never store-bought? they were handmade by Anne, adding a personal and enchanting touch. We take comfort in knowing that Anne's legacy continues through her family and all who were blessed to have known her. Though her voice is now silent, her spirit and her love continue to resonate in all of us. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to our longtime family physician, Dr. Pluta. Thank you to the medical team at the Strait Richmond Hospital for their compassionate care and unwavering support during Anne's hospitalization? Drs. MacInnis, Hanspal, DeRoche and Gillis. Special thanks to RN Leslie LeRue, and Rehab Assistant, Jessica Macdougall. Thanks also go to the St. Peter's Volunteer Fire Department and the EHS ambulance drivers that safely transported Anne from home to The Strait Richmond and to St. Martha's Hospital in Antigonish. Our gratitude extends to Kathy, Megan and Hilary, the Continuing Care Nurses that so lovingly looked after Anne while she was at home. Also to the VON. While at home and in palliative care, Anne's daughter Rosalie, a registered nurse, provided devoted around-the-clock care for which the entire family is so grateful. Further support was provided by her sister Jean and daughter-in-law, Corinne. A special thank you is extended to Nelda Sampson, a very close friend of Anne, who was also with the family at the time of Anne's passing. The family wishes to express sincere gratitude to Funeral Director Rachael Green and the staff at Green's Funeral Home in Port Hawkesbury for their thoughtful support, sensitivity, and professionalism throughout Anne's final arrangements. Their kindness brought comfort during a very difficult time. Thank you to Fr. Duaine Devereaux and the St. Peter's Church choir. The promise of the risen Christ gives us assurance and peace. You helped us celebrate Anne's life with confidence.
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