The College extends its condolences to the family and friends of Old Collegian Sam James Reale (SPC 2003-08), who passed away suddenly on April 15, 2020 aged 29 years.
Sam was a day student from Bacchus Marsh and attended SPC along with his brother, Zac (SPC 2006-11).聽In a moving tribute, Sam鈥檚 family said their son鈥檚 smile and energy will be forever missed but never forgotten.聽“You touched everyone you met with your kindness, like an angel doing God鈥檚 work鈥�.
Sam started at ACU Ballarat in 2018 as a Bachelor of Nursing/ Bachelor of Paramedicine student. Sam was a highly valued member of the Paraquinas Committee from 2018-2019 and was remembered as 鈥渃heerful and joyous, and never failed to share that energy with all those around him. His infectious laughter and smile had the ability to light up a room, and made all environments instantly warmer. Sam鈥檚 energy for life and kind nature would have ensured he excelled in whatever career path he chose鈥�.
Members of the Paraquinas committee plan to hold a memorial for Sam when campus life returns after COVID-19 and stated Sam鈥檚 鈥減assion, dedication and enthusiasm will always be greatly appreciated and remembered鈥�.
A moving tribute was also posted by Ballarat-founded band APES, in which Sam was the bassist. Band members remembered Sam as 鈥渢he absolute heart and soul of everything we embodied.鈥� The tribute continued 鈥淗e approached music in the same way he approached life. With love and passion. Sam鈥檚 ability to help someone believe in themselves, even when they couldn鈥檛 see it, might have been among one of his greatest gifts. Things will never be the same without you. Beyond being a band mate. You were a brother and a friend. We will cherish the time we were lucky enough to have all shared together.鈥�
Sam was also remembered by the staff and players of the Western Bulldogs Football Club, where he was a much-loved staff member and friend. In a moving tribute, the footy club remembered Sam as a 鈥淏ulldog through and through and his smile and warmth will be greatly missed at all鈥�.
