Samuel George Riddoch (3 Aug 1965 - 14 Feb 2024)

Dear Sam, you left too soon. I am devastated. Thank God that we had that lovely evening together. With a smile, I remember your compassion for others, your sometimes erudite, sometimes lewd wit, your love of the arts, your commitment to social justice, your dapper style, your eccentricities. You touched the hearts of many. You did so much good. We spent some fabulous times together, and my regret is that I didn’t say “yes” to more of your invitations. I’m sorry we never made it to the Queer Museum. I will go and think of you, like I did at a recent visit to the Royal Court. I know your heart was heavy from the terrible loss of your dearly beloved partner and you carried that with you. I pray you are now together. Go in peace Sam. Raising a glass to you. There is only one Sam Riddoch. Much love, Jenny ❤️

I remember when I first met you, I knew you were a bit of a character. Our conversations flowed and we could talk about anything and everything... Then we would be talking "smack" as you'd say.. aka
bitching about people haha.

A simple knock at the door would continue into long conversations for hours on end. You were a very proud man, and hated being forced to accept help from me and Claire for simple things.

I will also miss you for being "The Shadow" as you know we would joke about this. The key just entered the lock and you'd be there, telling me off and then paying me a compliment... Haha.

You're missed and may you rest in peace my dear friend.

Sam

I was very sad to hear of your passing.

Many moons ago, I recall meeting an intelligent, smiling, softly spoken young man as our paths crossed from time to time as Rhonda and Nicholas were starting out family life in East London.

On reading these messages it is evident that you took time to build and nurture a great many friendships over the years. These very personal insights show real affection for you - your thoughtfulness, keen humour, sense of fun and for bringing meaningful conversations to the forefront.

You will be much missed Sam by your family and friends.

My condoleances goes out to all the Riddock family. I met Sam during a music festival at Laurentian University and we kept contact aver the years. He was special and a great friend. He will be greatly missed.

Sam was an old high school friend, and I've thought of him so many times over the years. He left me with a couple of stories that still make me smile all this time later. We bonded in part over both having parents teaching at our school. Thanks Mrs. Riddoch for helping me math! :) I'm so sorry Sam has left his family and friends far too young, but I'm grateful to have known him.

My deepest sympathies to Ed, Rhonda and all of Sam's family and friends. I was proud to call Sam a friend for over forty years, and I will miss him forever. It was an honor to know him❤

My deepest sympathies to the Riddoch family. I have fond memories of Sam growing up in Lively. You were always so kind and funny. From memories at George Vanier and then again at Laurentian. You will be missed, Sam.

Saddened to hear of Sam's passing. Our deepest condolences to his family. Lots of good memories of growing up with Sam and the Birch Street bunch in Lively. Rest easy, Sam.

Mr. Riddoch, Rhonda and family,
My deepest condolences to you all. Although my experiences with Sam were only from kindergarten to post secondary it did not fade my fondness or delight in the memories of the times and important life events we shared. From the first kiss on my cheek from a boy to the first time a boy asked me out on a very innocent date in grade 5(cross country skiing on the Lively golf course and hot chocolate at the Riddoch household apres ski with Mrs. Michichuk chaperoning) to us fashioning the poor decision to getting a perm. His effortless wittiness, friendliness towards all and that wonderful laugh (I was recently reminded of) made time spent with Sam always memorable. Sam always had and will continue to have a very special place in my heart.
Upon hearing of Sam’s passing Vanessa and I shared immediate tears of sadness but they naturally morphed into tears of laughter as we shared our own great memories with Sam.
Rest in peace Sam ❤️. Your friendship was precious and your memory lives on.

Anna Tyrkos Just now
My sincerest condolences to Sam's family. I met Sam in Grade 13 and have amazing memories of the great times, laughs and fun together . He was so smart and funny and I remember his strive to get perfect marks on his tests even challenging the teacher when he didn't get that bonus mark.
May his memory be forever eternal, Anna

Dear Riddoch Family
So sorry to hear of Sam's passing. He was such a great child to babysit and hardly spoke a word, he was so shy!His smile though could light up a room.He was a real sweetheart! So sorry for your loss! Another angel in heaven❤️
Hugs to you all

I'm saddened to hear of Sam's passing. My condolences to the family.

My sincerest condolences to Sam's family & friends. I knew Sam in public school. He was a very nice person. I so very saddened to hear of his passing. Gone to soon, never to be forgotten. ⚘🌷🌹❤🤗💗💗
Lisa Dumencu

I am so saddened to hear of Sam's passing. Many hours of our childhood summers were spent swimming and exploring with Sam and Rhonda on Hannah Lake. Such great memories.

My deepest condolences to Ed, Sherry, Rhonda and all of Sam's family.

I'm so sorry to hear of Sam's passing. I have very fond memories of Sam growing up in Lively. He was always a bright light, full of fun, joy and kindness. My heart goes out to the whole Riddoch family during this time of grief and loss. February 14 is a very special day; the message of love runs even deeper...xoxo

Sam, you have left a huge space in my life. I am truly saddened by your passing. I have so many memories, mostly of you telling me off for things like my parking skills, what I’m burning in the back garden, and me not following politics. I admire your honesty, like when you told every one at the dinner table that you thought my sister was a bitch!😁 Thank you for the little notes and presents you left on my doorstep. Every time I leave or enter my flat I can’t help but expect to see you open your door to say hi. I’m honoured that you trusted me and Jay with your door key and I’m sorry I didn’t do more to help you. Rest in peace xx