Sam Thomsen died tragically on Wednesday, June 11, 2008 when a tornado hit the Little Sioux Boy Scout camp near Blencoe, Iowa, killing three other boys and injuring 48 others. Sam was there with nearly 100 boys from Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota who had gathered for a leadership-training week known as Pahuk Pride.

Samuel Zachary Jordan Thomsen was born more than three months prematurely on June 16, 1994 and was lovingly adopted by Sharon and Larry Thomsen and sisters Lindsay and Sara. He was named after the biblical Samuel, whose name means "a gift from God".

Sam loved Scouting and his goal was to become an Eagle Scout. His passions were Jesus, football, the Huskers, Xbox video games and his Roadrunners basketball team.

Sam had a real heart for God and people. There was always a smile on his face where ever he went and he showered kindness onto everyone he met. We will miss Sam immeasurably, but we will never forget the impact he had on our lives. We cannot wait until we can come home and see you again.

Two memorial funds have been set up in Sam's name. The funds will support the Nebraska Youth Camp. You may contribute to these funds at:

• Douglas County Employees Credit Union
• Sam Thomsen Memorial Fund - Omaha State Bank (12100 West Center Road, Omaha, Nebraska 68144)