NEWTOWN, CONN. — Former antiques dealer and collector Al Francis Sampley died on August 27. He was 91. A decorated war hero and respected antiques dealer for more than 50 years, he co-owned Almar Antiques of Wells, Maine, with his wife, Mary Ann Killian Sampley.

Sampley was born February 6, 1923, in Somerville, Mass., the son of Harry G. and Marjorie Partridge Sampley. He was an aviator, serving in the US Army during World War II and as the captain of the Civil Air Patrol based in Monroe, Conn.

A member of VFW Post 308 in Newtown, Sampley was also an avid sportsman. He had a penchant for breaking records, competed in midget car racing and bowled a perfect game. He loved golf, fishing, hunting, boating and skiing, and was an exceptional photographer and artist.

Remembered for his dry humor, he will be missed by those who knew and loved him.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his close friends, the Albanese family.

Please direct memorial contributions to Disabled American Veterans, www.dav.org, or the Newtown Animal Center, www.theanimalcenter.org.