Kirk Sampson

Kirk Sampson, a devoted family man, friend to many and passionate outdoorsman, passed away August 26th, 2024 at the age of 49. He leaves behind a legacy of love, adventure, and unwavering loyalty.

Kirk’s passion for life was evident in his many hobbies and interests. An avid outdoorsman, he cherished hunting of any kind, baseball/softball, skiing, trap shooting and training the families two chocolate labs Avalanche (Ava) and Ruby. Whether on the slopes or in the fields, Kirk made countless memories with family and friends that will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.

Kirk was born March 29, 1975 in Stillwater, Minnesota. His childhood established his passion for adventure while living in Belgium, Minnesota, Iowa and Wisconsin. Kirk’s love of outdoors and family was cultivated through yearly hunting and fishing trips with his dad, many cousins and uncles.

Kirk spent the past 25 years married to the love of his life Nicole. They shared in the love of many of his hobbies and settled on the east side of the Twin Cities, spending 13yrs together in Hugo and the past 10yrs in West Lakeland Township, just south of Stillwater, not far from where he spent many of his years growing up. 

As a father, Kirk was a constant source of support and encouragement for his children, Carter and Callie. He took immense pride in their achievements, always there to coach, celebrate, and offer guidance. His deep commitment to his family was a cornerstone of his life.

Kirk also held a deep sense of duty to his country. He was honored to be one of the original dozen founding members of the Alpha "Outlaw" Company, 1/194 BN, 34th Infantry Division (Red Bulls), a role he embraced with pride and dedication.

Professionally, Kirk spent 25 years of his career at 3M in various positions, mostly in Information Technology as a Project Manager / Business Relationship Manager. 

Kirk is preceded in death by grandparents, Selvin and Billie Jean (Allen) Sampson, Irvin and Helen (Kangas) Cyrus, and aunt, Karen (Cyrus) Bowers. 

He will be deeply missed by wife, Nicole; children, Carter and Callie; parents, Ron and Gayle Sampson; sister, Kori Hack; father and mother-in-law, Richard and Carol Thompson; sister-in-law, Kari (Matt) Helgeson; nephews, Trent and Dylan Hack, Zach Helgeson; niece, Brooklyn Helgeson; his four-legged companions, Avalanche (Ava) and Ruby, aunts, uncles, all ten of his loving cousins, and countless friends he also considered “family”. 

His warmth, enthusiasm, and the joy he found in life will be profoundly missed. Kirk’s spirit and love will remain in our hearts and in the cherished memories of the countless adventures he shared with us all.

A celebration of Kirk’s life will be held Saturday, September 7th, 2024, 2:00pm at Veterans Campground on Big Marine Lake, 11300 180th Street North, Marine on St. Croix, MN 55047, with an informal gathering following the service from 3-6pm. During the gathering after the service, anyone who would like to share a story about Kirk that is special to them will be invited to speak. Casual attire and camouflage is even encouraged!! 

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the family. The memorial funds will help Nicole and the kids continue to create meaningful memories while experiencing Kirk’s love and support. 

To celebrate Kirk and shared stories that will also be made into a keepsake for his family, please add pics and stories to the public storyboard below. 

Memorial Fund

Shared Stories