Samuel Hummel Obituary
Kalamazoo
Sam passed away tragically on Monday, March 11, 2024. He was born on May 21, 1991, the
much loved son of Guy Hummel and Karen (Reist) Blaesser. He graduated #1 in his class from
Comstock High School in 2009, where he competed in Cross Country, Basketball, and Track.
Sam loved sports. He ran his first half-marathon at 15 and his first full marathon at 16.
After graduating high school, Sam attended Grand Valley State University for a year, then spent
a year at College of the Desert in Palm Springs, CA where he competed on the Cross Country
team. After that, he returned to Grand Valley, graduating Cum Laude, earning his Bachelor's of
Business Administration in Management in 2014.
While in California, Sam started competing in triathlons, often placing in the top three in his age
group. He increased the distance each race, eventually completing a full IronMan in Coeur
d'Alene, Idaho in 2012. His love of sports continued throughout his life. Most recently he
enjoyed playing volleyball in social leagues and working out at the gym.
Sam worked as Senior Supply Chain Engineer, North American Operations, for Benteler
Automotive Corporation in Grand Rapids.
Sam is survived by his parents, Guy (Christy) Hummel and Karen (Mark) Blaesser, and
numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. Preceding him in death are his beloved grandparents,
Robert Jay and Nellie (Willis) Reist, great grandmother Niomia Hummel and grandfather William
Hummel.
In accordance with Sam's wishes, no formal funeral service is being held. His family is planning
a private celebration of his life in the near future. We encourage his many friends to gather and
celebrate his life in your own way.
In honor of Sam's deep love of animals, memorial contributions may be directed to the SPCA, or
other local animal shelter.
The loss of Sam leaves a hole in our family and in our hearts that will never be filled.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
3305 Three Mile Rd. NE Suite B, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
People and places connected with Samuel
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Theresa
July 20, 2024
So sorry to here may God be with you. Theresa L LUMBARD Bagley
Guy hummel
June 4, 2024
I would just like to say that all of you that left a memory of Sam you will never know how much you truely meant to Sam. He loved you all very much and spoke of all of you often. I believe that Sam is in Heaven and looking down on all of us and cheering us on to a victory on the volleyball court and life.
Matthew Kuivenhoven
May 10, 2024
Sam you were my best friend in high school, and man did we have some good times. From playing basketball in the drive-way for hours, to trips out to Rod's lakehouse, some of my greatest memories were with you.
I will never forget the time we went backpacking at Pictured Rocks, we were hiking 13 miles a day with 50lb packs and by the end of the week long trip we were so tired of hiking we convinced you to run an entire half-marathon back to the car while Andrew and I carried your pack 1 mile through the woods to the road. Two hours later you had already picked us up on the side of the interstate and we were eating the best fried chicken we had ever had in our lives.
You were the reason I decided to go GVSU, you were my best friend and because you were going to Grand Valley, I had to go there too. It was at that university where I met my wife; we now have two beautiful children. The life I have today has been monumentally shaped by you, and for that, I will eternally be grateful.
There was no one like you, everything you did, you did 110%, and that feels like an understatement. Your years on this planet my be short, but in those years you accomplished so much and made so many memories.
You were a great storyteller, so articulate and funny. You were smart, kind and you had such a big heart. You had a deep love for animals, and I know the world is a better place because you were in it.
And to Guyger and Karen I love you both. Sam had a great childhood because you were both such great parents.
Sam, my old friend, you will be missed.
Gail Chism
April 20, 2024
I am so sorry for your loss. I googled my GGGrandfather, Samuel F Hummel's obituary and this Samuel came up. I'm wondering if we're related. (Samuel F Hummel 1819-1875). And my 3rd great uncle Samuel Hummel (1846-1934). My grandmother was Alvida (Hummel) Nichols. Again, I am so sorry for your loss. My emai: [email protected]
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Myra Busscher
March 28, 2024
I am so very sorry to hear about Sam! My prayers are with Guy and Karen! You were blessed with an amazing young man! Please keep all your happy memories close and share them often in the days to come with everyone.
Andrew Kuivenhoven
March 23, 2024
Sam was one of my best friends growing up. Between being on boats, making trouble in the neighborhood, college parties, and weddings in the summer we never had a boring time. He talked me into running both my first marathon, and my first triathlon, and was never against a friendly competition. His passion for life always pushed me to be a better person, and the world is truly a dimmer place with his passing. I can't believe this is happening, but I hope you're happy where ever you are brotha. Have a drink on me, and never let the good times stop.
Rosalie Hummel
March 22, 2024
You may not be here on Earth anymore Sambut the memories we shared will always remain alive.
It will take me the rest of my life to find the right words for this. But for now, may you rest in peaceeven tho I’m sure you’re making it a party. Love you, always.
Kam Kampen
March 19, 2024
Sam was a good buddy of mine in high school and a guy I spent a lot of time with on the basketball court.
In those days he was the valedictorian of our 2009 class, an avid runner, and had a vertical north of 30”.
He had a work ethic back then that was rarely matched by his peers.
Sam also had a fun side and would occasionally produce his own music video renditions covering Kelly Clarkson songs.
My family is saddened by his passing and keeping Guy and Karen in our prayers.
You always welcomed me in your home and Sam was a great guy.
Truly sorry for your loss.
Ellie Tribbett
March 19, 2024
Chelsea Kneibel
March 17, 2024
Chelsea Kneibel
March 17, 2024
Chelsea Kneibel
March 17, 2024
Chelsea Kneibel
March 17, 2024
Chelsea Kneibel
March 17, 2024
Chelsea Kneibel
March 17, 2024
Volleyball just won´t be the same without Sam. I´ll aways be thankful for our friendship.
Cassie
March 16, 2024
Cassie
March 16, 2024
Cassie
March 16, 2024
Cassie
March 16, 2024
Jacob Christiansen
March 15, 2024
Sam was a amazing friend the times we shared hanging out with other friends. From casino trips to volleyball you always knew how to make people enjoy your presence R.i.p my friend
Chelsi Prosser
March 15, 2024
Chelsi Prosser
March 15, 2024
Chelsi Prosser
March 15, 2024
Chelsi Prosser
March 15, 2024
Chelsi Prosser
March 15, 2024
Chelsi Prosser
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Chelsi Prosser
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Chelsi Prosser
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Chelsi Prosser
March 15, 2024
Some more pictures of the great memories with you.
Chelsi Prosser
March 15, 2024
Chelsi Prosser
March 15, 2024
Chelsi Prosser
March 15, 2024
Chelsi Prosser
March 15, 2024
Chelsi Prosser
March 15, 2024
I will cherish these memories for the life of me. You have touched so many hearts in the time that we knew you. I wish I could let you steal the ball from me in every future volleyball play, even though it drove me insane at the time. Volleyball 2’s is a memory I think about ALL the time and I was so thankful you invited me to be your partner, even though it was SO miserable!! You were a wonderful human being and I am so thankful that I got to know you. You will never be forgotten around here. We will miss you and that humor of yours.
Chris Speer
March 14, 2024
Chris Speer
March 14, 2024
Chris Speer
March 14, 2024
Chris Speer
March 14, 2024
Chris Speer
March 14, 2024
Chris Speer
March 14, 2024
It's with a heavy heart and fond memories that I write to celebrate the life of my dear friend, Sam Hummel. Sam and I first crossed paths as "free agents" in a recreational volleyball league, a serendipitous meeting that quickly blossomed into a deep and enduring friendship. We bonded over our shared love for the game, our similar sense of humor, and our natural competitive streak, all of which made every game we played together memorable.
Sam was the epitome of a true friend-goofy, fiercely protective, and always ready with a trash talk that could make you laugh even in the heat of the moment. Off the court, he brought the same energy and warmth to every gathering, whether it was a camping trip, a volleyball tournament in Ohio, or just a casual get-together at my place. His presence made every experience richer and more enjoyable, filling our time with laughter and camaraderie.
To me, Sam was more than a friend; he was part of my extended family. His kindness, protective nature, and unforgettable sense of humor left a mark on everyone he met. As we celebrate his life, I am reminded of the countless good times we shared, the moments of joy, and the unbreakable bond we formed through our adventures together. Sam's spirit will forever live in our hearts and memories, inspiring us to cherish the time we have with our loved ones and to live life with as much passion, laughter, and love as he did.
Rest in peace, my friend. Your legacy of friendship, laughter, and kindness will continue to influence all of us who were lucky enough to know you.
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