I cherish my memories with and of Sammy and wish that there could have been more. I am touched by Sammy’s tribute and it makes me wish I could know him even better. Sammy cracked me up a lot and was a lot of fun to be around. A precious, valuable life, prematurely ended. His death is heartbreaking in many ways, and I grieve with y’all. Know that God cares about our heartbreak (1 Peter 5:7), and is a very present help in time of trouble (Psalm 46:1). To anyone reading this who may be struggling with depression or hopelessness, please remember that the worst seasons of our lives are not a reliable indicator of how the rest of our lives will be. Hold on to hope, my friend! https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=0NykPNLSwBM&ra=m
Amanda Buck
May 29, 2026
Losing a son and a brother leaves a void that can never be filled. Sammy brought so much light into the world, and his memory will always live on in the hearts of everyone who loved him. Our heart aches for you as you navigate through this difficult time.
Kathy and Dave Swanson
May 29, 2026
Vance family, you are in our thoughts and prayers.
The Rehnke Family
Jeff and Angela Rehnke
May 29, 2026
We are so deeply sorry for your loss, love. Knowing Ben, we can only imagine the kind of beautiful soul Sammy was. We are sending so much love to everyone who knew and loved him. There truly are no words, except that we are here for you in anything you need.
We love you deeply, Kate and Ben. 🤍
Virginia Novello and Adam Mayfield
May 28, 2026
It still doesn't feel real. I keep popping in and out of reality with the crushing realization that you are gone. You were such a key part of my life and the lives of so many others.
I am not sure if you ever believed it, but you had a tremendously positive impact on so many. You were an authentic soul that made everyone who had the pleasure of knowing you better for it. I miss our days of playing games into the night while having serious conversations (as well as incredibly silly ones). I miss your humor, perspectives, kindness, and presence. I cherish the time we had together and I cannot begin to express how much I wish things were different. I am sorry I cannot be there in person to celebrate your life. I will miss you so very much, Sammy.
My heart goes out to the entire Vance family.
Always your friend,
Chris
Chris Greer (Lindgren)
May 28, 2026
Sammy, I still cannot believe you are gone. It feels so unfair that someone so young, kind, and full of life was taken so soon. You brought warmth and positivity to the workplace, and your presence made a difference to so many people every day.
Thank you for the memories, the conversations, and the kindness you showed to everyone around you. You will never be forgotten, and there will always be an empty space where your smile and laughter used to be.
Rest in peace, my friend. My heart goes out to your family, friends, and everyone whose life you touched.
Thang Tong
May 28, 2026
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts are with the Vance family.
Byron and Suzanne Bork
May 28, 2026
I didn't know Sammy, but I'm moved by the honesty of his obituary, and deeply sorry for your difficult loss. Wishing you deep comfort.
Lisa Hannon
May 28, 2026
I am deeply saddened by this news. It is terribly difficult to be a family suicide survivor. Sammy will live on in all the memories you hold dear. I only wish I could have known him better. My deepest sympathies and prayers to you Carol and Gaylen. I am sure the pain is so deep but his light survives.
Joan Gillon
May 27, 2026
Sharing time with Sammy in Montana is a great memory of mine. He was fun and helpful. The conversations were great and I enjoyed his company. So many wonderful attributes and I appreciate him. Love you all! Our family and community are praying for you.
Rob Mullins
May 27, 2026
We are so sorry for your loss. We met Sammy at Ben and Kate’s wedding but, unfortunately, did not get to know him well. Our thoughts are with you, his family, as you say goodbye to Sammy. You are in our prayers.
Ron and Pam Skelton
May 25, 2026
To the entire Vance family….. we send our deepest condolences for your loss. Sammy was at our house once fora gathering so we had the pleasure of getting to know him. Please know that all of your Montana family are keeping you in our prayers!
Tal and Wendy Williams
May 25, 2026
Can’t stop thinking of you Vance’s and had the pleasure meeting Sammy a summer or two ago during one of you guys Montana visits. To say he lit up a room is an understatement, he was a force of positive energy with an aura that was magnetic to those around him. Anytime we listen to music, take a scenic walk, hike, or do anything we love, we will definitely have Sammy in our hearts & minds doing so. Sending love and many hugs from your Montana family
Jace Williams
May 25, 2026
There aren't any words to express the sorrow we feel about this loss. I'm so sorry, and I wish there was something more I could do.
Sammy was so incredibly smart and funny...I wish he could have seen himself through our eyes. We all miss him, and I know Zoidy does, too.
Kate Parsons
May 25, 2026