John J. Sampson of Melrose, died on Thursday, October 9, 2008 at his home. He was 63 years old. Born on July 31, 1945 in Medford, MA to Eileen M. (Steele) & the late Frank G. Sampson, he was raised in Medford and a graduate of Medford High School. Mr. Sampson entered the Air Force and served as a Sargent during the Vietnam War. He was an aircraft mechanic and refueler on B-52s & C-135's He worked as a cableman and special services with the New England Telephone Company for 24 years and he also worked on the Cedar Program with the City of Melrose where he was a resident for the last 35 years. John enjoyed fishing, woodworking and the New England Patriots. He was the devoted husband of Catherine M. (McGuinness) Sampson, loving father of Meredith C. Sampson of Melrose, Dr. Eric S. Sampson & his wife Shannon of Scarborough, Maine & Megan E. Sampson-Lyons & her husband Kevin of Chicago. Cherished grandfather of Avery C. Sampson. Loving son of Eileen M. Sampson-Burnett & the late Frank G. Sampson. Caring brother of Frank G. Sampson & his wife Jane of Melrose & Ann L. Cullerton & her late husband Tony of Westford. Funeral from the Gately Funeral Home 79 W. Foster St., Melrose on Tues. Oct. 14th at 8AM. Funeral Mass in St. Mary's Church, Herbert St., Melrose at 9AM. Family & friends respectfully invited. Visiting hours Mon. 4-8PM. Interment in Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose. Arrangements by The Gately Funeral Home of Melrose. In lieu of flowers, donations in John's memory may be made to a charity of choice. For directions or to sign John's guest book, please visit www.gatelyfh.com