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Samuel Starr Obituary

STARR Samuel Robert Starr, age 47, of Bexley, died on December 31, 2006. Born March 12, 1959 in Saint Louis, Missouri. President and CEO of Sterling Commerce. Graduated from Bexley High School in 1977, The Ohio State University in 1980 and attended the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences at Columbia University. Previously employed by IBM, BankOne and Claremont Technology. Sam will be remembered by many for his performance as Tevye in the school production of "Fiddler on the Roof" as well as for his many athletic achievements. Sam was characterized by his constancy to duty in regard to both his family and his profession. His six children could not have asked for a more devoted and involved father. His wit, love of the arts and continual search for challenges endeared him to all who knew him. Sam's stellar career took him around the world, but his heart remained in his home and his yard. Sam was preceded in death by his parents Irving and Sophie Starr, and his parents-in-law John and Catherine Hoffman. He is survived by his wife, Mary Ellen Hoffman Starr; and their children, Margaret, Hannah, Eliza, John, Isaac and Abraham; his sisters, Jennifer and her husband Dr. Eugene Lesser and their daughter Isabelle (Hollis, New Hampshire), Lee and her husband Doug Arend and their daughters Ruth and Sarah (Evanston, Illinois). Also survived by his aunts and uncles, Rivoli Starr and Nancy and Jerry Landau; cousins, Andrea Starr, Judy Starr (Mark), Seth Starr (Karen), Adam Landau (Patricia), and Joshua Landau (Beth); close friends, Bob Irwin, Seth Stearns and Jim Hendrickson; brothers and sisters-in-law, Joseph Hoffman (Felicia), Thomas Hoffman (Jean), Sister Margaret Hoffman, O.S.F., John Hoffman (Dee), Kathleen Brewer (John), Edward Hoffman (Tina), Susan Gruber (Matthew), William Hoffman (Darcy); and much loved nieces and nephews. Private family funeral at EPSTEIN MEMORIAL CHAPEL, Rabbi Howard Apothaker officiating. Visitors may call at the family home on Tuesday, January 2, 2007 between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. or Wednesday, January 3, 2007 between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. A service of remembrance will be held at the Columbus Athenaeum, 32 North 4th Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215, at 4 p.m. on Thursday, January 11, 2007. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Sam's memory to The Columbus Jewish Foundation, 1175 College Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43209. The family is grateful for the outpouring of kindness and support at this time.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Columbus Dispatch from Jan. 1 to Jan. 2, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Samuel Starr

Not sure what to say?





Christine Birhanzl

February 7, 2007

I remember Sam from BHS. When I think of Sam Starr, the following comes to mind. “You are all Champions in your own way. That doesn't mean you have to be number 1 or be the best. Just do your best. If you aren't first, then make those people ahead of you break records by pushing them with your personal best.
God Bless the entire Starr family. Keep those wonderful memories close to your heart and always always talk about what a wonderful husband, father, friend, son and man he was.

Nancy Hess Hummer

January 29, 2007

Mary Ellen and family,

My heart aches for you. I have just learned this news and what first came to my mind was how brilliant and kind Sam was, and oh, how he stood out at BHS! And he always will in my memories. We all need a little Sam Starr to remind us to go for our dreams, but not take ourselves too seriously.
My thoughts and prayers go out to you,

Jane Maiden

January 27, 2007

Dear Mary Ellen,
You and the children continue to remain in my thoughts and prayers daily.
Love, Janie

David Moralita

January 18, 2007

I was able to meet Sam here at Sterling Commerce's Singapore office. His personality simply vibrates charisma and leadership, and I'm glad to have met such a person. G-d bless to your family.Shalom.

Dana Vashon

January 15, 2007

This guest book has been a great way to get to know Sam better. I continue to pray for your family and hope you find rest & peace in the midst of this heart ache. You sound like a wonderful family; strong and dedicated. Bless you.

Rick and Pam Fritz

January 15, 2007

The Starr Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you - God bless you!

Rick Shawhan

January 13, 2007

My deepest sympathies to Sam's family. I spoke with Sam twice privately, both times Sam sponsored me in a Walk for Life campaign. Both times Sam shared his concern for the unborn and his work in helping the unfortunate on the East side of town. I was so impressed with his big heart, his getting involved and his genrosity. Just another part of Sam's legacy and his being a role model.

Hong Ju

January 12, 2007

My deepest sympathies to Sam's family. Sam is our great leader. He will be deeply missed.

Don McClain

January 12, 2007

Sam,
May Heaven keep your soul and we keep your dreams!

Barrie Ma

January 12, 2007

All of us at DTC Consulting were very saddened to hear the news about the passing of Sam Starr. We would like to express our sincere condolences. We also send our thoughts and prayers to his colleagues and family at this difficult time.

Randall Hannon

January 11, 2007

I have 3 CEO's that I have worked for who have made an impression on me. Nelson Stefany at Consolidated Biomedical Labs, the late Steve Ross at Warner Cable Communications and Sam. The commonality of all of them is that they were regular people. They never put on airs that they were different than you. In fact, they were just like you. That was their strength. It was easy to work for them. I join the family in their mourning.

Chris Jones

January 11, 2007

All I can say is that I share your pain, grief and heartache and hope an pray that, despite our loss, this will bring us all closer together and make better men, fathers and friends to those we love.

Sam, I know, loved his friends, his teammates, and most of all his family. I set my goals to be half the man Sam Starr was, what he stood for, and what he meant to so many people.


God Bless.

William Paulson

January 11, 2007

President John Quincy Adams said "If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader". Sam Starr inspired all he came in contact with and I truly miss him as a great leader and caring person.

Gerry Fosnick

January 11, 2007

My condolences to Sam’s family. I am at a loss for words that can properly express my feelings of sympathy. I was very shocked and saddened when I learned of Sam’s passing. He was great person and friend. I shall miss him dearly and will cherish the memories of how he made the world a brighter place. His memories and spirit shall live on in all those who knew Sam.

Richard Koike

January 10, 2007

My heartfelt sympathy to your family. Sam had a way of being warm and business-like at the same time. I have appreciated his insight and advice during his trips to Japan. He will be sorely missed by all that have known him.

Ben Marini

January 10, 2007

Uncommon, insightful and passionate was how I viewed Sam after his presentation at last year's Executive Summit. His depiction of Winston Churchill now seems prophetic, right down to the cigar. There's much of Sam's work left to be done. Let's preserve his legacy.

Iwahashi Makoto

January 10, 2007

I was deeply distressed to hear of the sudden passing of Mr. Sam Starr, the
president of Sterling Commerce.
His passing must mean a great loss to your organization.
He was a fine person, and a well-liked man who will be sadly missed by all
who knew him.
May I offer you my sincere condolences.
If there is anything I can do to help you, please do not hesitate to let me
know.
You have the deepest sympathy of everyone of my staff.

Steve Verber

January 10, 2007

Mary Ellen and family,
While I did not have the good fortune to keep up with Sam after high school, I remember him as truely kind and decent, as someone you would look forward to meeting and talking to on any day. We are diminished with his passing. Please accept my deepest condolences for your loss. You, Sam, and your family remain in my thoughts and prayers.

Kiyoshi Masubuchi

January 9, 2007

Sam, I met you on various occasions during your Asia/Pacific trips and you were always so energetic that I received your power and big smiles, which I am grateful to remember even now. I would like to thank you for your heartfelt friendships so far, and extend my sincere condolences for your family.

Mary O'Donnell - Stoll

January 9, 2007

My deepest sympathy and prayers to Sam's family and friends. I knew Sam over 15 years ago when I met him at IBM. He was a bright light that lifted everyone.

Kazumasa Sugawara

January 9, 2007

I was so sorry to hear his passing. He made a bridge between Japan and US as Sterling Commerce CEO. It was very impressive for me to mix some interested Japanese words when he spoke to Japanese audience. I will miss him very much.

Claudia Luna

January 9, 2007

I met Sam and I will always remember how he tought me with his example to care about what people in the company is doing, no matter if they were in other country, he knew his team, he share his toughts, he was a lider and never forget him.

Suresh Damodaran

January 9, 2007

Sam, I remember you handing out the book on Shackleton’s Voyage of Endurance in the early days. You loved sailing. True to the spirit of the sailor in you, you steadied the Sterling ship, negotiated rough seas in the depth of recession, and navigated through recovery and opportunities. You took bold decisions out of necessity. We are humbled and indebted by your achievements. We will miss Sam, the revenue man, who always brought great news with levity. We will miss Sam, the pragmatic visionary, who checked the winds before setting the course. You were always one of us, and we always believed in you. Thanks for all that you have done for us. Wish you were here to see the ship navigating out to the deep seas seeking new riches... We will miss you as an individual even more than as chief. Eternal peace to you.

Yukari Kurita

January 9, 2007

My deepest sympathies to the Sam's family.
Sam came to Japan office several times, and he was a wonderful person and great leader. We all will miss him a lot.

Jerome and Nancy Dubois

January 8, 2007

Sam was an inspiration to all those who knew him. He will be remembered fondly. Our deepest sympathies and thoughts of hope for your family.

Patricia Cheong

January 8, 2007

Sam was an exemplary visionary leader with strong values and a great personality. He'll be dearly missed.

Yin Li

January 8, 2007

My deepest sympathies to Sam's family. It is such deeply sadness to loss Sam so suddenly.
I only met Sam twice but the memory is still so clear and fresh - Sam is a kindness person as well as he is a great leader. We will certainly miss him.

Miho Tajima

January 8, 2007

It was a shock to hear that Sam passed away.
I extend to you my heartfelt condolences.

Con Fourkiotis

January 8, 2007

Sam will be remembered for listening, for his leadership, for his ethics and vision, and especially for his sense of humour. Sam travelled around the world and the people (DownUnder) in Australia will not forget that he understood the term we call, 'mateship'.

Doug Shonka

January 8, 2007

My condolences to the Starr family. Sam was a good man.

Keith Wedinger

January 8, 2007

My family's prayers are with the Starr family at this very difficult time. May the grace of our Lord assuage your bereavement.

Jim and Wendy Ray

January 8, 2007

I am saddened by the sudden loss of Sam. As a long time Sterling Commerce employee, I truly believe that Sam was one of our greatest leaders, whose vision and guidance helped our company grow in many ways. He led with intelligence, enthusiasm, integrity and humor - some of the greatest qualities a CEO can have!
My family and I would like to offer our heart-felt condolences to the Starr family. May God be with your family at this time, and always.

Gilberto Magalhaes

January 8, 2007

During our lifes we meet several people, but just a few are special... Even when they are not close to us, we feel good when we remember them, and they become immortal to us. I am very thankful when I meet special people, and I keep them in my unforgetable special people list. Sam Starr is in my special people list.

Keith and April Brasch

January 8, 2007

Sam was truly a great man. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family.

Farid Shams

January 8, 2007

My deepest condolences to the Starr Family. Sam was a great leader and an inspiration to us all.

Regards,
Farid Shams

Veronica Lewis

January 8, 2007

My deepest sympathies to the Starr family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Dennis Langmeyer

January 8, 2007

I would like to offer you my heart-felt condolences on your and our loss. Your family is in my prayers. God bless

Harald Rademacher

January 8, 2007

Dear Star family!
I only met him twice but knew directly that he is special - not only my CEO - not only my colleague! He was able to spread warmth and a comfortable feeling! My thoughts and prayers are with you!

Angeline Lim

January 8, 2007

Everyone is blessed with specific talents to fulfill their purpose on earth. For Sam - He is truly an inspirational leader and a good boss. We will miss you.

tim pedon

January 7, 2007

When I think of Sam I think of a time in junior high school when he was playing running back in football and had advanced the ball part way down the field and had become surrounded by defenders in a big huddle. After what seemed a long period of time Sam emerged from the huddle and advanced the ball down the field. That's Sam! His indiviualistic personality and his will to not give up are an example to all. I will miss him.

Tina Harrison

January 7, 2007

Sterling Commerce has lost a much loved and respected leader. Sam was a true people person who made each and every member of his staff feel that he valued their efforts and contribution. Sam will be greatly missed.

Jim & Maureen Montague

January 6, 2007

Sam was truly a blessed man whom everyone loved.
Sam’s enthusiasm for life inspired others to expand their life experiences. Our deepest condolences to the Starr family and Sam’s closest friends.

John McCrystal

January 5, 2007

Mary Ellen,

You and your family are in my thoughts. I wanted you to know that I have fond memories of running with Sam. Talking with Sam during long runs was unique – I didn’t realize until years later what a mentor he was for me. Sam has and will continue to live in my memory and I consider myself lucky for having known him.
Peace,

Dave & Mindy Cain

January 5, 2007

Mary Ellen and Family,
We are deeply saddened for your loss. Sam was clearly a wonderful man as evidenced by his extraordinary children. We will never forget how Sam unselfishly gave his time and career guidance to Dave. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.

Mofoluwaso Kuti

January 5, 2007

My deepest sympathy and prayers goes out to the family. Mr Starr was a great leader. May the Lord Almighty comfort the family.

Neal Beeler

January 5, 2007

Dear Starr family,

I was shocked and saddened to learn of Sam's passing. He made a difference to so many people in so many ways, and he will be missed.

We will keep you in our hearts and prayers.

God bless.

Chuck McCrory

January 5, 2007

Since 2002 I can see That Sam Starr had a real dream to make Sterling Commerce a wealthy execllent business and friendly to the globalworld. May God has mercy his soul. Peace and faithfully to Mary Ellen and her children. Shalom Chuck McCrory (Deaf) of Administration Support Assist of Sterling Commerce

Gary Krann

January 5, 2007

Mary Ellen and Family,

I am profoundly saddened to hear of Sam's passing, he will be missed by many. I have such fond memories of spending time at your home in Mt Vernon, Liberty Church events, and bagels and coffee at your home in Powell. You two were so comforting after my father passed in 1998, I know that will and has come back to you many times over. Respectfully Yours.

Greg Russell

January 5, 2007

Our deepest sympathies go to the Starr family as we all grieve the passing of a great man. Sam was always full of optimism and passion for his Sterling family. He will be sorely missed.

Eric Carlsen

January 5, 2007

I am but one of the many who worked for Sam at Sterling, but you should know that the people working for the man truly enjoyed being led by him. He was a man of the people who made everyone around him comfortable - not a trait shared by many CEOs.

My condolences to the Starr family for this terrible loss.

Regards,

Ed Martin

January 5, 2007

Mary Ellen and family,
I met Sam at Claremont Technology Group. He showed me one of his gimmicks for getting a prospective client to invite him in to give his sales pitch. He was creatively different from others. He had a clock with the numbers out of order. He had a unique perspective on life that I liked. My wife and I visited you and Sam at your house to see how home-schooling was going for you. We decided to try it ourselves and have been doing so ever since. To me, Sam was a good guy doing well in a sometimes not-so-nice world. Even though our paths parted, I was able to admire his success from afar. I’m sorry his life in this world could not have been longer. May God welcome his soul into heaven. May he give you and your family courage and the support of others in the days to come.

Sally & Gene Millard

January 5, 2007

Our world has lost another great leader, but God has gained a bright "Starr". Our lives have been enhanced by knowing Sam and Mary Ellen since first grade, (with our son,) and sharing some of the happy moments of their lives. What a pleasure to help them acquire each of their homes, and work with them professionally and personally. We are contstantly awed by their accomplishments with career and beautiful children, reaffirming the important things in life, rather than materialism. Sam touched more lives in this world, and accomplished greatness in his 47 years than most people do in a lifetime. His family will reflect this influence. You are all in our prayers.

Jamie Youssefi

January 5, 2007

My deepest condolences to the Starr family. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

Patti Polster-Rega

January 5, 2007

Dear Mary Ellen,
Hearing the sad news about Sam reminded me of just how fragile life is. When I think about our BHS class your two faces always appeared together. My hearfelt sympathies to you and your family.

Mitsumasa Esashi

January 4, 2007

I am saddened at Sam's passing.
May peace and comfort find and keep his family.

Sam Abbo

January 4, 2007

Our Deepest Sympathy goes out to Mary Ellen and family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

Joseph & Andrea Fields

January 4, 2007

Our thoughts and prayers go out to your family during this difficult time.

Carol S

January 4, 2007

Sam will be greatly missed for the guidance, direction and friendship that he has given so many people throughout his life. May he remain as a star to us all and his memory a comfort to his family.

Julie & Larry Schirm

January 4, 2007

Our sympathies and prayers extended to Mary Ellen and children. Sam shared a great witness in giving time, talent and resources. Our lives completely changed one morning after hearing Sam's story at Liberty. Thank you so much for all that you shared, particularly yourself.

Martin Rusoff

January 4, 2007

Sam was a unique person. For me he was one of those friends that seems to show up periodically in my life... ready to share his latest passions and enthusiasms almost as if no time had passed at all. I find it hard to imagine a world without Sam. Even though I did not know him as well as others might have, I will sorely miss the chance of encountering him again.

My heart goes out to his family. I know they will miss him terribly.

Yiguang Hu

January 4, 2007

I remember Sam said his door was always open when he talked in the town hall meeting. I never visited his office. I remember one early morning, when I got out of the car and I saw Sam was also off his pickup far away in the other side of the parking lot and he also saw me and waved to me. I knew from that encounter that Sam mean busniess when he said his door was always open. Such a humble leader will be dearly remembered. I pray that his soul rest peace in heaven.

Lisa Bishoff

January 4, 2007

We are so sorry for you loss. Know that you are in our hearts and prayers. With deepest sympathy,
David & Lisa Bishoff

Michael Forristall

January 4, 2007

Sam will be greatly missed. I admired the passion he brought not only to Sterling but to life in general. His energy was infectious and will be sorely missed by all. My sympathy and prayers go out to Sam’s family and friends.

Pamela Taylor

January 4, 2007

My most sincere condolences to the Starr family. Sam was a strong guiding rudder, a brightly shining beacon, and a strong wind in our sails through many, sometimes tumultuous, changes here at Sterling Commerce. We were all stunned by his passing .... he will be sorely missed.

Alan Goodrich

January 4, 2007

I never met Sam, but in the few months since joining Sterling I have felt his spirit and enthusiasm were self evident in the fabric of the company and I truly wish I had had the opportunity to meet the man who's charisma blessed us all.

Heather Bahner

January 4, 2007

A respected leader will be sorely missed at Sterling Commerce. I had an opportunity to introduce a Sterling customer to Sam, our CEO, at our Customer Conference this past year. The customer was thrilled that he got to meet and shake the hand of our company leader saying "I can't wait to tell my boss that I met Sam." Sam smiled and shook his hand and offered him a drink. It was like he was hosting a great dinner party. I'll remember Sam's down to earth nature and the fact that he really was one of us.
My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.

Connie Smith

January 4, 2007

May the love of friends and family
be a source of comfort to you
at this time.

Carinne Propper

January 4, 2007

Sam, you had the rare quality of inspiration, not just leadership. You remembered people for who they were, regaled in anecdotes and shared learnings, you appreciated beauty and culture, you displayed humor and wit. My heart and thoughts are with your wife and beautiful children whom you spoke so admirably of, always.

Brian Gibb

January 4, 2007

Sam was one of those wonderful people that you meet in life. He was such a great role model for leadership, integrity, and genuine care for people. He was an inspiration to all and I will miss him very much. My thoughts and prayers are with the Starr family.

Mike Ferraro

January 4, 2007

My deepest sympathies to the Starr family. I started at Sterling Commerce about the same time as Sam. As Sam grew, the company grew. He turned this company around. I was fortunate to see Sam's other works as well. Sam donated his own time to help build a technology solution for a non-profit agency that helps reduce underweight births to low income mothers. The next time I light up a cigar I'll think of you big guy.

Chip Midnight

January 4, 2007

My favorite Sam memory: On a flight back from the Sterling Customer Conference in 2003, our flight was delayed and it made us arrive late in Atlanta to catch our connecting flight back to Columbus. The gate agent said we’d have to hustle to make the connection. Sam – the CEO! – said “I’ll run ahead and make sure they wait for us.” As the CEO it would have been easy for him to ask somebody else to sprint across the airport, but he didn’t. He made it to the gate first and got them to keep the doors open until we all got on. That is the way I’ll always remember Sam – he was “one of us” even though he had the CEO title. Sam will be sorely missed.

Nathan & Cristina Farr

January 4, 2007

It is always hard to loose a loved one. Our thoughts and prayers are with Sam’s family. Sam was a special man. We will always remember him as a man that care for those around him.

Odelia Avny

January 4, 2007

Sam,a leader who can point the path ahead, who believes in his team and a person who has the gift of kindness, passion and friendly. He touch our hearts, our personal life and professional careers.
With deepest sympathy.

Tammy Cordell O'Brien

January 3, 2007

Sam was the epitome of human kindness and consideration. Loved by all, especially by those of us who grew up with him at Bexley High School, Class of 1977. Not only is this a loss for his former classmates, which includes his beautiful wife, Mary Ellen, it is a loss for humanity. We need more Sam Starrs in this world. May his heart and spirit live on.

God Bless

Horace Mak

January 3, 2007

When I first met Sam early last year, I was his customer. Several months later I became one of Sterlites. Sam is a very nice man, down to earth and willing to talk to all of us. We were all shocked by Sam's pass-away. I would like to express the deepest sympathies and condulences to Sam's family - Mary Ellen and Children.

Shirley (Amey) Schaffner

January 3, 2007

Mary Ellen,
I was so deeply saddened to hear of Sam's death. He will always be remembered as our Tevye. What a wonderful man and surely to be missed by all who knew him

Chris Clothier Family

January 3, 2007

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Sam and to his family in this difficult time.

Kathleen Vogel

January 3, 2007

My heartfelt sympathies to the Sam Starr family! I did not know Mr. Starr, but I do know his sister-in-law, Dee Hoffman. Dee always spoke very highly and lovingly about Sam, his wife and children and always about their kindness, generosity and love of family.My sympathies to the entire Hoffman family.

Jeff Woods

January 3, 2007

Dear Starr family,
I am thankful to have experienced Sam's exemplary leadership and remarkable vision. Our family offers our deepest sympathy to you. We are praying for each of you during this very difficult time.

M. Carmen Hoggard

January 3, 2007

Mary Ellen, May God Bless you and your family with great peace during this diffucult time. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Steve & Janet Brzezinski

January 3, 2007

Our hearts and prayers are with the Starr family. Sam was kind, caring and compassionate. He loved to engage with everyone, and will be missed by all who knew him.

With our deepest sympathy

Cheryl Weathers

January 3, 2007

Sam Starr was an amazing man who lived his leadership philosophy every day. His ability to remember names and faces across his large Sterling Commerce team showed that he cared about each individual as well as the whole. I will greatly miss Sam and his in-depth questions that quickly got right to the core.

Brenda Velten

January 3, 2007

To the family of Sam Starr:
My heartfelt sympathy goes out to you, Sam's family, at this time and in the days ahead.

As someone who has worked at Sterling throughout Sam's tenure, I believe that Sterling Commerce "blossomed and grew" under his leadership. His upbeat and friendly persona, his drive and his vision all have contibuted to our success and will continue to do so in the future. I hope you find some comfort in knowing that he will be sadly missed by his employees at Sterling Commerce, but that his legacy will live on.

Nathan Khattari

January 3, 2007

I would like to express my sincere condolences on the passing of Sam Starr. My thoughts and prayers are with Sam’s family at this difficult time.

Although I didn’t have the chance to know Sam because being a new employee, I have heard from our management team the words,loving, honest,humble and inspiring.

I would like to let you know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Debra Goldstein Norman

January 3, 2007

MaryEllen- My thoughts are with you and your family.

Pauline Hall

January 3, 2007

Because of Sam Starr I felt a sense of comfort in being a member of the Sterling Commerce team. I just knew this company would flourish and grow leaps and bounds under his leadership. I believed in this so much that I moved from my home state of Michigan to Ohio to work in the corporate office. I have been here now for four years.

Sam will be truly missed here at Sterling, and I hope his family will find comfort in knowing just how Sam touched everyone’s life and made them feel as though they too could accomplish anything they wanted as long as they believed in themselves.

My heart goes out to you.

Ida Burke

January 3, 2007

My prayers are with the Starr family. I met Sam a few months ago when he was in the Dallas office. I was very impressed with his wit, honesty and leadership. He will be missed by all.

Malinda Goodrich

January 3, 2007

Mary Ellen,
I have lost touch with you and Sam since high school but I do think of you often. I enjoyed laughing with Sam in classes and band at Bexley. I considered him a good friend. I am so sorry to hear of his sudden illness and passing. My condolences to you and your family. My thoughts are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Doug Banton

January 3, 2007

With our deepest sympathy and prayers, my family extends its condolences to Mary Beth and family at Sam's passing. He was a true gentleman and will be missed by many.

Patrick Howdeshell

January 3, 2007

My prayers go out to Sam's family.

Meagan Van Zak

January 3, 2007

My thoughts and condolences are with the Starr family. I never had the opportunity to meet Sam, but appreciated his wit and enthusiasm at our Town Hall meetings. May his name be for a blessing.

Stephanie Yeager

January 3, 2007

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort. I know that he will be missed at Sterling.

Jean Franklin

January 3, 2007

Words cannot express my heartfelt sadness for your loss. I pray that God will give you strength and heal your hearts during this time of sorrow. With deepest sympathy.

Shaun McCreary

January 3, 2007

I am sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers for comfort & strength are being lifted up for your family.

Kate Noll

January 3, 2007

My prayers and thoughts go out to the Starr family. Thank you for sharing your father and husband with us at Sterling. Sam made a huge impact on Sterling as a fearless leader who encouraged everyone to do their very best, treat others with dignity, and never loose their sense of humor. I loved the way he would pick a new book every year, and focus the whole vision of the company around it. He never seemed to stop looking for a new way to conquer an old problem. He will be missed.

Kelly Longstreth

January 3, 2007

I am deeply saddened by the sudden loss of this great man. May you find comfort in knowing that Sam touched the lives of so many with his wit, wisdom and leadership.

Felicia Olsen

January 3, 2007

I listened to Sam the Result's Man in his Town Hall messages faithfully, and met him once in our Las Vegas CDS conf in Nov. 06, after his heartfelt and inspiring address to our team. He was a gracious and interesting man, describing his love of historical figures, in reading biographies, and quoting their words of wisdom: Winston Churchill, Abraham Lincoln, and other substantial leaders. His will be an enduring legacy in the manner of other great men and women leaders, devoted to family, country and the companies or governments they lead with integrity, honesty and unfailing commitment and vision. My heart goes out to his family and friends as they seek solace in remembering his gifts to all.

Chaz Chastain

January 3, 2007

I find it so very difficult to comprehend that we are praying for Sam Starr and his passing as my wife and I listen to our 7 year old son say his nightly prayers. I am beginning my 45th year of professional employment, but only my 2nd year at Sterling Commerce. I can easily say that Sam is the best leader I have had the pleasure to follow.I count it a true blessing to have spent 2 days with Sam this past September at our office and experience first hand his charm and professionalism. Our prayers go out for Sam's family.

Troy Hatch

January 3, 2007

Sam was a guiding light. His family and friends are in our prayers.

Andreas Tervo

January 3, 2007

My thoughts and prayers are with the Starr family as they deal with this tremendous loss. Although I never met Sam, his innovative communications like "Sam the Results Man" made it sometimes seem like I worked right there with him. He was a tremendous leader and will be greatly missed.

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How to support Samuel's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

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Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

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Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

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How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

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The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

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Ways to honor Samuel Starr's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

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How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

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How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

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