Sam Herald

While some have years to live, work, and play, others have little time to enjoy all life has to offer. Although the life of Sam Herald was far too short, he made a lasting impact on those who knew and loved him. He was quiet and gentle, but was every bit a caring and compassionate man. He enlightened everyone around him with his lighthearted wit, and when he put his mind to something, Sam gave it his all. He shared the friendships of many, and will be dearly missed by those who called him son, brother, grandson, and friend.

Even though the 1980s recession caused unemployment to increase at a rate of nearly 12 million in 1983, the world was moving along at a rapid pace. The U.S. sent their first woman into space, and the internet world welcomed the launch of Microsoft Word. While Cabbage Patch dolls and the Nintendo Entertainment System was on the wish list of children everywhere, Michael Jackson was dancing and singing his way onto the top of the charts. Yet for Wilgus and Denise (Birkmeier) Herald, nothing was as exciting as or more important in their lives than the June 11, 1983 birth of their little boy, Samuel in Kalamazoo, Michigan that year.

Raised alongside his sister, Ashley with whom he was close, Samuel’s father, Wig worked for Little Debbie brand in distributing, and his mother continues to work for Stewart Southerland in Vicksburg. The Heralds made their home in Vicksburg where Sam enjoyed a childhood filled with adventure and longtime friends. He attended the Vicksburg area schools, and in high school served on the yearbook staff. He also participated in an academic group, Future Problem Solvers, and volunteered behind the scenes in the theater department at school before graduating in 2001. It was during high school while volunteering for South County Players, when he met Christina, the young woman who stole his heart.

To further his education, Sam went on to attend Western Michigan University, graduating in 2006 with his bachelor’s degree in journalism. He volunteered for WIDR Radio while at Western, and for many years, as Dr. Staticoy, hosted the radio program, Radio Free Kalamazoo. Shortly after graduating, Sam landed a job working at WKZO Radio which he loved. He continued to be involved in local theater.

After dating and falling deeply in love, Sam and Christina were happily married in 2009. Together they made their home in Kalamazoo, and shared many hopes and dreams for the future. They each complimented one another well, and offered strength and support to each other in all their endeavors. Even though children weren’t meant to be in their lives, Sam and Christina shared the love of their canine companion, Roxy who brought much enjoyment to their lives. Sam was always a big animal lover, and always had a dog by side.

Besides his work and many other involvements, Sam loved playing video games. He also spent a lot of time on social media, and listened to a wide variety of music. In his free time, Sam loved to write, and loved reading, too. When it came to food, everything was Sam’s favorite, as long as it wasn’t hot and spicy. While growing up, Sam enjoyed a few vacations with his family, but always preferred being close to home. As a big Groucho Marx movie fan, that alone gives an indication into Sam’s sense of humor and funny side. He was quick with his witty nature, which was one of the many things everyone loved about him.

A quiet and gentle giant, Sam had a heart of gold. He was caring, and got along well with everyone he met. He was considerate, and kept in contact with old and new friends alike. Many remember Sam for these things which made him so special in the hearts of those who called him friend.

When Sam’s beloved wife, Christina passed away on February 6, 2015, Sam’s family and friends were there to help sustain him as he fought illness of his own. His sister Ashley was especially a help to Sam during this time. Although Sam was taken from those who cared about and loved him much too soon, may his memory be a beacon of light throughout the lives of all he touched with ways all his own. Gone but never to be forgotten, his spirit forever lives on

Samuel Herald, age 31 of Vicksburg passed away Saturday, April 18, 2015 at Bronson Methodist Hospital. Visit with his family and friends on Wednesday, April 22 from 12-2 PM at the Life Story Funeral Home, Vicksburg; 409 S. Main St. (269 649-1697). A graveside service will follow at the Vicksburg Cemetery. Sam’s family includes his mother, Denise; sister, Ashley; and grandmother, Mima Meadows. He was preceded in death by his father, Wig and his wife, Christina. Please visit Sam’s memory page at www.lifestorynet.com where you can share a favorite memory or photo and sign his memory book online. Memorial donations can be made to WIDR Radio at WMU.