Charles Sampson West

Berlin

Charles “Sam” West, age 75, of Berlin, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, April 14, 2025. Born on November 3, 1949, Sam was the son of the late Charles Thomas West and Dorothy West.

Sam graduated from Stephen Decatur High School in 1967 before enlisting in the U.S. Air Force in 1969. He served his country proudly until 1973. After leaving the military, Sam worked as a meteorological technician at Wallops Island, VA from 1975 until he retired in 2000.

Sam’s “retirement” was spent buying and selling antiques. He often joked he worked longer hours in retirement than during his career.

Sam journeyed across the globe – from sunny Florida to the icy edges of Greenland and Antarctica – but it was the untamed beauty of the American West that stirred something deep in his soul. His love of country was matched only by his love of westerns, which is why the sprawling National Parks of the West held such a special place in his heart.

Sam is survived by his loving wife of 54-years, Betty; two daughters, Ashley Stewart and her husband Eric, Michelle Kogon and her husband Jeremiah; and granddaughters Alana and Myah Kogon. His children and granddaughters were his pride and joy. He is also survived by his sister Ruth Shockley; brother-in-law Robert Holloway; sisters-in-law Barbara and Susan Holloway; and nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Norman Adkins; sister-in-law, Mamie Lou Adkins; brothers-in-law, Jack Shockley and Harold Holloway, Jr.; and father- and mother-in-law Harold and Mary Holloway.

Sam was a member of the Berlin-Ocean City Jaycees from 1977 to 1984, serving as President from 1978-79, and was the recipient of the Jaycees International award. He was also a life-long member of the Berlin Lions Club, American Legion, and NRA.

An avid hunter and outdoorsman, Sam loved to explore the fields and waterways of the Eastern Shore with his beloved dog, Goldie.

The family would like to express tremendous gratitude to kindhearted people at Coastal Hospice, Home Instead, and the VA (Veterans Affairs).

Services were held. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.