Leon R. "Lee" Sample

Leon Raymond “Lee” Sample of Niles, passed away on Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 4:30 p.m. in his residence. He was 89.

Mr. Sample was born September 4, 1927 in Warren, the son of the late Walter T. and Margaret French Sample.

He was a 1945 graduate of Warren G. Harding High School. Following high school, Lee went on to further his education by attending classes at Kent State University.

Lee proudly served our country in the United States Army from 1945 to 1947. He received the Army Occupation Medal and World War II Victory Medal. During his time in the military he installed, operated, and maintained tactical field radio transmitting and receiving equipment overseas. Following his honorable discharge from the United States Army, Lee enlisted in the Ohio National Guard where he achieved the rank of Lieutenant.

Lee was a truck driver for Heckett Engineering.

Mr. Sample was of Christian faith. He enjoyed traveling to various destinations, and loved spending time at Lake Erie. Lee always enjoyed a good scoop of ice-cream. Most importantly he loved spending time with his family.

His wife, Dorothy Woodworth Sample, whom he married December 24, 1950, passed away on November 18, 2002.

He is survived by a daughter, Shirley (Paul) Bickerstaff of Niles; a sister, Nancy Chicko of Ravenna, OH; 3 grandchildren, Dawn (Charles) Adgate, Janice (Michael) Williams, and Andrew (Melissa) Bickerstaff; 8 great grandchildren, Jordan, Emma, Haylee, Makayla, Zachary, Madison, Taylor, and Dylan.

In addition to his parents and wife, Lee was preceded in death by 2 brothers, Jack and Richard Sample.

Friends and family may view the obituary and send condolences by visiting www.NicholasFuneralHome.com

Calling hours will be on Monday, November 21, 2016 from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Wm Nicholas Funeral Home and Cremation Services LLC. 614 Warren Ave. Niles, OH 44446

A funeral service will be held on Monday, November 21, 2016 at 7:00 p.m. in the funeral home with Rev. Mary Ann Short, pastor of Howland Community Church.