Thomas F. Samuelson

Hampton – Thomas F. Samuelson, 88, a longtime Hampton resident who had recently moved to Dover, passed away on October 14, 2025, at Portsmouth Regional Hospital. Born in Plattsburgh, NY, on the 4th of July, 1937, he was the son of the late Alfred and Florence (LaMar) Samuelson. Tom was raised in Albany, NY, and was a graduate of Albany High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy directly after graduation and served two years on active sea duty, which included a tour to Antarctica as part of Operation Deep Freeze. He recalled the 30-foot waves and loved the experience. He served in the reserves thereafter and received an honorable discharge in April 1967. Following his naval service, Tom worked in construction throughout his career. He built 23 homes in the Hampton area, including the one he lived in for 40 years. In the 1980s and 90s, he completed many home renovations in the Dover area, often on properties that had fallen into disrepair. He felt privileged to have worked on the oldest home in Somersworth. Tom also held a license for 10-story buildings in the Boston area, where he completed larger projects. He was known for his efficiency and high-quality work and was highly praised by his clients. He retired early and enjoyed traveling to Norway, Arizona, Disney, and Aruba. A hobbyist wood turner, he created over 400 pieces. He also enjoyed many outdoor activities throughout his life, including gardening, fishing, and hunting in his younger years. More recently, he was a cherished attendee of the Dull Men’s Group at the Portsmouth Senior Center. Tom was predeceased by his older brother, Alf Samuelson, of Phoenix, AZ. He was also predeceased by his wife of almost 30 years, Barbara, and later by his second wife of almost 30 years, Beverly. He was predeceased by his much-loved son, Scott. He is survived by his adored older sister, Karoline Taaffe, of Port Orange, FL, and five children: Lynne, Kathy, Jennifer, Heath, and Luke. He also leaves behind many members of his extended family, including six grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, and step-relatives. He leaves behind too many dear friends to mention. He was loved by all of them, and each felt that they gained knowledge and insight from knowing him. He learned his approach to life from his father, who said: "life is like a ladder and you keep climbing up, one rung at a time; if you slip down, you climb up again." His greatest role in life was as Luke’s father and caregiver for 35 years. He wanted to make sure that Luke's life was and is as full as anyone else's. The family extends a special thank you to the Dover and Hampton Fire Departments for assisting Tom and his family over the years. An extra special thank you is also extended to all his healthcare providers. Visiting hours will be held from 4–6 p.m. on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at the Remick & Gendron Funeral Home-Crematory, 811 Lafayette Road, Hampton, NH 03842, with a brief service immediately following at 6 p.m. in the funeral home. A private burial will be held at the High Street Cemetery, Hampton. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to TASC, 200 High Street, Hampton, NH 03842 or online by clicking here, a service that helped Tom maintain his independence by offering rides. He was forever grateful for the many rides and wonderful conversations. He will also be forever grateful for all the kindness shown to him and his family. The greatest gifts you can give in Tom’s memory are to treat all people with kindness and to treat people with special needs as equals.

Thomas F. Samuelson

July 4, 1937 - October 14, 2025