Jean L. (Sampson) Shimanski, 68, lifelong Haverhill resident, passed peacefully at her home Thursday evening, Oct. 15, just a week after her birthday, after a courageous battle with cancer.
One of four children of the late Joseph P. and Bella M. (Descheneau) Sampson, Shimanski was born in Haverhill Oct. 8, 1947, and was a graduate of St. James High School, Haverhill. She was a coordinator with the Internal Revenue Service, retiring after 30 years of service.
She loved to cook especially Polish food. Her home was always filled with tantalizing aromas and the promise of a delectable home made meal, complete with much merriment, laughter and a sense of belonging. She also enjoyed shopping, arts and crafts, knitting and dancing. She possessed a very positive outlook – no matter how bad a person was feeling, you would always leave her company with a smile and a lightened heart.
In addition to her husband of 48 years, Richard P. Shimanski, she leaves her daughter, Pamela Shimanski; her sister, Therese M. Rogers and husband Michael all of Haverhill; her brother-in-law, William, several nieces and nephews, extended family, and many dear friends. She was predeceased by her son, Richard P. Shimanski Jr., who died in 2004, her brother, Joseph E. Sampson, who died in 2007, and her twin sister, Jane.
Visiting hours at the Monument Square Chapel of Paul C. Rogers Family-Carnevale Funeral Home, 334 Main Street, Haverhill, are Monday, Oct. 19,from 5 to 7 p.m. A graveside service for family and friends will be held Tuesday at 11 A.M. at St. Patrick’s Cemetery, 395 North Broadway, Haverhill, MA 01832.