David Sambdman

David Gus Sambdman, 53, passed away on April 20, 2011. The heavy burden of a year long trial was lifted from our beloved Dave at his home in the presence of his family. Dave was born on November 15, 1957 to parents Gustav Sambdman and Gloria (Vale) Willstead in Iowa City, Iowa. He was a 1975 graduate of Dixon High School. On September 21, 1985, he married his best friend and soul mate Cindy Kay Hines. On December 8, 1991, Dave was blessed with the other love of his life when daughter Blaire was delivered into this world. Dave began work at the Dixon State School and transitioned to a new career when the state transferred the facility to the Department of Corrections for the state of Illinois where he served in several capacities culminating in the rank of Lieutenant. Widely recognized as the ultimate "Company Man", Dave provided valuable service and input to all wardens he served under, resulting in the ultimate recognition as employee of the year in 1992. He was in charge of the facility's safety and security systems, contributing to many upgrades through his visionary efforts. Dave was also selected to serve as an auditor for many of the correctional facilities in Illinois, reviewing their safety and security systems, personally aiding in improving those sites. He retired in honor in 2008 to pursue other interests. He was an active member of the Dixon chapter of the Elks Club. For 18 years. Passionate about physical conditioning, he was an avid runner and weight lifter. Throughout his life, he enjoyed travelling with Cindy and Blaire. Dave has a great community of friends that Cindy and he loved to spend time with. He relished doing home projects as well. Dave was the epitome of what all men should aspire to be: one who cherishes their loved ones, helps their neighbors and friends, listens without judgment, is slow to anger, yet quick to forgive, and a defender of those who are weaker. Never a procrastinator, he led by example, not by words alone, though a favorite quote he would often share with Blaire was that "persistence overcomes resistance, so work hard." He served as great friend, mentor, and hero to older brother Fred. More than a brother, he was a father figure to sisters Debra and Lisa. He was the rock of the entire family, guiding through any troubled water. Along with wife Cindy, he instilled those values in daughter Blaire, making her the outstanding young woman she is today. Preceded in death by treasured father Gustav and revered grandfather John Vale, and also grandmother Margaret VanFossen and mother-in-law Mert Larmer. His memory will be cherished and celebrated by the light of his life, Cindy; beloved daughter Blaire; constant companion Rusty; mother Gloria; father-in-law Dick Hines and mother-in-law Kay Hines of Port Orange, FL; brother-in-law Greg Larmer and step-father-in-law Jin Larmer of Rogersville, TN; sisters Debra, Lisa, and Lorie, all of Dixon; sister Sharon of Franklin Grove; brother Fred of Muscatine, IA; brother Buddy of Ashton; several stepbrothers and stepsisters; many nephews and nieces; as well as friends too numerous to mention. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Blaire's education. There will be a celebration of Dave's life for his family and friends to be held Saturday, May 21, 2011 from 2-5 P.M. at Loveland Community Building in Dixon.

David Sambdman

November 15, 1957 - April 20, 2011