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John Samsen Obituary
Van Nuys, CA - John R. "Dick" Samsen, 92, of Van Nuys, California, passed away Friday, November 6, 2020. Born on November 29, 1927, he was the son of the late John E. and Arta C. (Kessler) Samsen.
John attended Purdue University and received his degree in Aeronautical Engineering. His thirty-five-year career included design work on the first Thunderbird and two experimental cars at Ford, and the co-design of Barracuda, Fury, Road Runner, Imperial, Duster, and many other projects at Chrysler. John even published a documentary DVD "We Dreamed the Dream Cars," a history of American car designing. John was also a skilled artist, receiving many awards for his pieces.
John is survived by his wife, Mary "Tucky" Samsen; daughters, Carol Hill, of Michigan and Nancy Olson, of Texas; sisters, Jeanne (Max E.) Gilpin and Janette McMillen; and four grandchildren. At this time, no services are arranged for John. Arrangements entrusted to SoCal Cremation and Funerals, Van Nuys, CA.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Samsen
1 Entry
Milton Antonick
January 4, 2021
I worked with John at Chrysler from 1962 until he left in the mid 70's.
He purchased a sailboat and ice boat from me. We shared a passion for sports cars and sailboats. Rest in peace John.
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Greenlawn Funeral and Cremation Services6750 Covington Rd., Fort Wayne, IN 46804
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