Virginia Beach- Samuel Albert Runge age 50 died suddenly in his residence in Tucson, AZ, on Thursday February 19, 2004. Mr. Runge was born in Richmond, VA to George William Runge and Marilyn Pearl Silverman Runge. His father George William Runge preceded him in death .
Sam was a graduate of John Hopkins University with a degree in Engineering. He worked for both Newport News Ship Building and Raytheon Missile Systems as a Mechanical Engineer. Sam participated in the development of several patented devices. He invented , and was the sole patent holder, of three Shock and Isolation mounts that are employed on US Naval Vessels to specifically protect the lives of our military men and women. His inventions will continue to help others for many years to come. Sam was a member of MENSA, a national organization of recognized geniuses.
He is survived by his loving and devoted wife Myra Runge; his beloved children Emily and David; his mother Marilyn Silverman Runge; sister Rebecca Kipper; nieces Ann Daniels and her husband Brian, Monica Kipper and a great niece Cali Daniels. His father in-law and mother in-law Maurice and Annette Spivak; sister in-law Michelle Melinger and her husband and Joe; brother in-law Jonah Spivak and his wife Karen and nieces and nephews Aaron Kelley and Ari Melinger, Asher and Miranda Spivak. The family would also like to acknowledge Sam
Hey Sam,
I think you still owe me a beer. On second thought, maybe I owe one to you. Anyway, sure was great to have been on the same team. I bet your new job title is “enforcer of the laws of physics”. Keep up the good work.
Dick Doerner
I AM AMONG MANY WHO WAS FORTUNATE ENOUGH TO HAVE WORKED WITH SAM.
THE ONLY THING THAT STOOD ABOVE HIS TALENT AND SKILL WAS HIS PERSONALITY.
YOU WILL BE IN OUR PRAYERS
I count myself among many who have long admired Sam’s incredible talent, work ethic, creativity, and humor. He was one of kind.
I new Sam form the Shipyard, I work around him for many years, always enjoyed his humorous personality. He will be missed by all who new him.
I was saddened to learn of Sam’s passing. We spent many hours together playing golf at various courses in the Tidewater area.
My heart felt condolences go out to his wife and children.
I will always remember Sam from the time I worked at Newport News Shipbuilding in the 1980s. I always enjoyed working with him and the fact that you always knew where you stood with him. He will be missed by many.
Tim
Our sincere sympathy to Myra,David, Emily & the Family of Sam.We only knew him for several years but he had a lasting impression. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
Sincerely,
George & Shirley Mara
Please accept my sympathy at this sad time. Words are so inadequate, but do know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sincerely, Betty
Sam was a great and long-time friend. He will be missed. Pam and I send our warmest sympathy and prayers to his familiy.
Sam’s favorite line to me was “Doug, you just don’t understand”, mainly referring to the injustices on this earth. A quiet giant and a special friend. I was truly blessed by having the privilege to work with this brilliant man. He will be truly missed. God bless you, Sam.
Sleep with the angels, forever at peace. We will miss you.
Michelle, Joe, Aaron & Ari
Walter’s Family has the Runge Family in their prayers. He will be deeply missed by us all.
Wayne
You are in our hearts now and forever. We adore you, and thank the almighty for having been blessed with your presence in our lives.
You have left us on earth but your inventions and contributions to our men in the service will live on forever.We will sorely miss you