Samnang Thary O’Brien, known as “Sam” or “Sammy,” passed away at the age of 20 years on July 22. He was a student at Colorado State University, his most recent home after having lived in or visited more than 30 countries in his too brief life.

He was a great man who loved the outdoors, loved helping people, cared for everyone regardless of anything, and had a smile that could change night to day.

He is survived by his mother, Thary Than; his father, Louis O’Brien; and too many close relatives and friends to count. Every moment he shared with us was a blessing. He will be forever loved and so deeply missed. It simply isn’t fair to lose someone so precious.