Ralph C Samson

Ralph C. Samson, age 81, of Linn, Mo., passed away, Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at Stonebridge Adams Street Place, in Jefferson City.

He was born on February 26, 1945, in El Reno., Okla., a son of Charles J. and Carella Marie (Franken) Samson, He was married on December 26, 1970, at St. Martin’s Catholic Church to Mary Baumann who survives at the home.

After graduating from Linn High School, Ralph began his working years as a hog farmer. He later went to work for the Jefferson City Correctional Center, where he spent approximately 12 years as a corrections officer before eventually finishing his career as a delivery driver for Hometown Hardware.

Ralph was a man who enjoyed the simple things in life, especially when they could be shared with the people he loved. He enjoyed hunting, but some of his favorite times were spent hunting alongside his grandchildren or taking them fishing. He also enjoyed spending time in his garden or just sitting down for a good game of cards, especially a game of Preference.

Ralph was good with his hands and rarely afraid to tackle a project himself. A true “jack of all trades and master of none,” he could build, fix, repair, or figure out just about anything he set his mind to. He even built his own home and later took on the work of remodeling it. Ralph believed in working hard and doing things for yourself, and his strong work ethic was something he carried with him throughout his entire life.

Those who knew Ralph knew there were many sides to him. He was kind and loving, but he could also be stern when the occasion called for it and every now and then, he could be a bit ornery. That was simply Ralph. He was hardworking, capable, strong-willed, and deeply devoted to the people who mattered most to him.

Above all, Ralph loved his family, and he was deeply loved in return. His children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were an important part of his life, and the memories they made together will remain a lasting part of his legacy. The lessons he taught, the things he built with his own two hands, the stories shared on hunting and fishing trips, and the love he gave his family will continue to live on through each of them.

He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Mary; children John Samson (Janice) of Taos, Mo., Monica Duncan, (James) of Iberia, Mo.; son-in-law, Karim Balliz of Jefferson City; brother, Roger Samson (Carol); sisters, Sarah Koenigsfeld (George), and Mary Gabelsberger (David); grandchildren, Brooke Peppel (Lakota), Bryson Samson, Hunter Duncan (Kassidy), Jacy Duncan (Ethan Butler), and Kyle Duncan; and great-grandchildren, Bucklee, Quincy, Sophie, Henry, and Karlee.

Ralph is preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Carella Samson, daughter, Jeanette Balliz; and two sisters, Arlene Samson, and Rita Samson.

A visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., Saturday, September 12, 2026, at St. George Catholic Church with a Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. Colin Franklin as the Celebrant.

Graveside services and interment will follow at St. George Parish Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the family of Ralph Samson.

Funeral arrangements are under the care of Morton Chapel. www.mortonchapel.com