Sam was a social friend. I had great comrade since I had started in the computer business in the same era as Sam. We traded information on technology, and we enjoyed great social times going to plays, eating dinner, and watching foreign movies. Sam always had a special place in his heart for his family: Joice, Gavin and Corey. It was very easy to get a big smile out of him: just mention his adorable grandchildren. We miss his presence. — Lynn & Martin Weinstein

I had the great fortune of getting to know Sam Albert a couple of years ago when my father introduced Sam to me. I always looked forward to seeing or speaking with Sam: it felt good just to be around him. Sam always had kind words, a genuine smile, encouragement, and a glint in his ever-youthful eyes. He was a person who would go out of his way to make you feel comfortable and good about yourself. He didn't have to exert any effort in order to do this, it was easy for him because he was a Mensch. You know a person has touched your life in positive ways when you can't help but smile when you think of him. — Marc Inzelstein

Sam's coining of the term "coopetition" was typical of his approach. Where others saw competitors as enemies to be destroyed, he saw opportunities for synergy through collaboration. Sam was curious, ever eager to learn, and totally unspoiled. We miss him very much. — Stefan Inzelstein

Sam hired me in June 1967 as an IBM sales representative. He was my mentor, and my teacher. He provided me with a foundation of ethics, integrity, perseverance and performance. As I look back at my business career and who I am today, I see Sam shaped my life, my career and my beliefs. I will remember him always with love and respect. I give this toast: To the memory of one who once was, and to the knowledge he will be our hearts and minds forever . — Steve Gerbsman

I was explaining to a friend of mine recently, they just don't make ’em like Sam anymore. I remember your broad smile, your charm, your zest for life, your graciousness, and your heartwarming sincerity, the combination of all your gentlemanly traits firing in perfect timing. Even in a crowded room, I always found myself drawn into your sphere. You were a class act, someone we all admired. I think one of the fondest memories I have of you is how you showed me that photo of Cory and your lovely wife probably over twenty times. For all your good-natured gentility, I was often surprised when you'd ask the tough questions at analysts meetings. It was the serious Sam, the hard-working Sam that drove you to become the unique personality we all loved. We will surely miss you, indeed. and we will treasure your memory and celebrate the fine individual we knew and loved. — Susan Scrupski-Miranda

Sam. I am thinking about you and remembering all the times we were able to celebrate and gossip together on your birthday. I still can't believe you are gone, but you remain with us, always. I miss you. — Therese Poletti

I remember Sam as the yo-yo king of American University. He was very good at yo-yoing. I also remember his upbeat attitude about everything. He was always very well liked on the campus. His positive outlook served him well in life. — Willard Scott

Sam Albert made a lasting impression on everyone he met. He was a special, one-of-a- kind man: a giving and genuinely caring person. Sam was always interested, which contributed to making him so interesting. He was so knowledgeable, yet always seeking more knowledge. Sam mixed well with the notables and quotables, yet he gave opportunities to fresh rookies. The world is better for Sam having graced it. — Zuhair Suidan

Read the thoughts and memories of these people close to Sam:

Read a short essay by Harley Hahn...

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