I learned the sad news this morning on RO in a PM from tiny1 that samspade passed away recently. From tiny's PM:
Pete, I don't know if you are aware, but Samspade passed away. Don't have details, but I do know that he died from suspected heart related illness. ...
Tiny
sam didn't post here frequently, but he had been a member for several years. I know some RO-formers and current members are regulars here. Truly sad news.