Emmarie Samples

Emmarie Samples, 92, of Topeka, passed away January 10th, 2014 at Plaza West Care Center. She was born in Overbrook, Kansas to Robert A. Baldwin and Velleria M. (Krouse) Baldwin in 1922. She was raised in both Overbrook and later in Topeka, where she graduated Topeka High school in 1940.

Emmarie married Forrest Delbert Whitegon in 1943. Together, they had two children; a daughter, Bobby Lou (Whitegon) Blackmore, and a son Forrest Dennis Whitegon, both of Topeka. Emmarie is best known for the love of her family, a master of entertaining and delicious cooking. She married Gifford E. Samples, in 1966 gaining two step-children, Victor Samples and Michael Samples. The couple joined the Topeka Arab Shrine in the 1960's and dedicated many years of service, holding numerous positions and spending time with their Shriner friends.

Emmarie was no stranger to hard work. She worked in the retail and jewelry business beginning in her late teens and only decided to retire from working when she was 87 years young.

She is survived by both of her children; Bobby Lou Blackmore and Forrest Dennis (Suzette) Whitegon; two step-children, Victor Samples and Michael (Sherry) Samples; four grandchildren, Dennis Blackmore, Kim Howbert, with her three children - Brendan, Brady, and Briel; Forrest Darin (Beth) Whitegon, with their first child due in April; and Anjanette (Paul) Brungardt, with their two children Avery and Alex. She was preceded in death by her parents and both of her husbands.

Per her wishes, Emmarie will be cremated and the family will have a private memorial service. An inurnment will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Topeka Rescue Mission at trmonline.org, or the Topeka Arab Shrine Temple at 1305 South Kansas Ave, Topeka, Ks 66612.