Sam Gladstein passed away at his home in Ballard on October 4th, 2015, at the age of 60, after a long battle with cancer.

Born to Muriel and Eli Gladstein, Sam was raised in Queens, New York. He spent his 20s in Madison, WI, where he was heavily involved in school, community, and political activities.

From Madison, Sam moved to Seattle, where he raised three sons: Jacob, Noah, and Micah. Sam dedicated his life to helping others, and worked as an educator for 18 years. He founded the University District Youth Center, providing social services to homeless youth,, and went on to pioneer online learning programs, most recently for Edmonds School District.

Sam left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He was always willing to lend a hand, crack a joke, and offer a listening ear. A born storyteller, he had both swagger and a nurturing heart. Sam truly enjoyed the little things in life: a good bagel, a bad movie, or a poorly planned day trip. In the final years of his life, he met and married his true love, Katie; traveled around the United States and to Paris; and shared his journey with many of us, reminding us to, in the words of Warren Zevon, "Enjoy every sandwich."

Sam is survived by his wife Katie, his sons Jacob, Micah, and Noah, and his sisters Amy and Eva, and remembered by a vast network of people whose lives he has changed and friends who will miss him.

A celebration of Sam's life will be held on November 14th at Golden Gardens from 2 to 6pm. All are welcome to attend. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the University District Youth Center, Edmonds Elearning program or Seattle Cancer Care Alliance. -