- Sam Landsberger was tragically murdered last week
- The driver of the truck involved was charged
- His father gave an emotional farewell speech
The parents of beloved sports journalist Sam Landsberger have shared how their only son brightened everyone’s lives at a funeral service at Temple Beth Israel synagogue in St Kilda.
The Herald Sun’s award-winning AFL and cricket reporter was on the phone to his mother while walking to meet a friend when he was struck by a truck driven by a 45-year-old Seaford man at the intersection of Bridge Rd and Church St in Richmond, Melbourne on August 20.
The 35-year-old man later died at the Alfred Hospital from his serious injuries.
Landsberger’s parents, Jake and Anne, remembered their youngest child and only son as a “loving and wonderful” person who would be deeply missed.
“Approximately 22 years ago our family was in this very same place, in this big, wonderful room, celebrating Sam’s bar mitzvah; now we find ourselves in this very same room, in total and complete devastation,” Dr. Landsberger said.
‘I’ve heard many stories that parents should never have to bury their children, but this is what we’re doing.
‘He was a dedicated and hard-working journalist who loved his job.
“He brought so much joy to our lives. He lit up every room he walked into, and yet he lit up our entire lives.”
Award-winning Herald Sun sports journalist Sam Landsberger has been sacked after being hit by a truck and killed in Melbourne
Landsberger’s parents paid tribute to their son at his farewell on Monday after he was killed aged just 35.
Dr. Landsberger said her son’s second grade teacher called him “diamond” and it was the perfect word to describe him.
Dr Landsberger, a former doctor for the Western Bulldogs, recalled his favourite story about his son when he was 10 years old.
“Sam had vomited all over his front and his chest was bright yellow,” she said.
‘I lifted him over the fence and we went into the rooms to check on him… (only to find out) that the reason he was sick was because he had just consumed a giant box of Cheezels.
‘From then on, all members of the club would call him Cheezels.
‘At this moment we feel indescribable devastation, but also deep gratitude for what he gave us – a beautiful, wonderful, caring young man who will never be forgotten and will always be in our hearts.’
Since news of his death broke, the AFL and sporting communities have shared fond memories of the man who spent his career writing about the highs and lows of every code.
Landsberger’s loved ones will pay their final respects to him on Tuesday at Temple Beth Israel in St Kilda.
“The entire AFL football community is shocked and saddened to learn of Sam’s sudden death in a tragic road traffic accident,” his online obituary said.
‘As well as being a talented and respected journalist, Sam was a fervent Bulldogs fan and had close family ties through his father Jake, a former long-term medical officer of the Western Bulldogs Club and a life member of the Bulldogs.
‘His enthusiasm for the game and passion for his job were always evident and his positive approach and friendly nature will be fondly remembered by all who knew and worked with him.
‘Our deepest condolences to Jake, Anne, Jess, Sarah and all their extended family, friends and colleagues.’
Landsberger receives Melbourne Press Club award for career in sports journalism
Meanwhile, the Seaford man who was driving the truck that hit Landsberger is due to appear in Melbourne Magistrates Court on September 19.
He was charged with refusing to provide a blood sample to police after the accident.
The man also received a notice prohibiting him from driving until his first court appearance.
The 45-year-old underwent standard roadside alcohol and drug tests, which came back negative.