Eugene “Sam” Kent, born November 23, 1938 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, passed away March 21, 2026 in Lakeville, Minnesota, at the age of 87.

Sam lived a full, meaningful life rooted in family, faith, and showing up for others. He attended the School of Mines in Rapid City, earning a degree in Mechanical Engineering, before moving to the Twin Cities where he met the love of his life, Betty. They married in 1961 and built a beautiful life together in Bloomington, raising five kids and creating a home that always had room for one more. He was also the youngest of four brothers, a role he carried with quiet pride throughout his life.

At 30, Sam was diagnosed with diabetes and told to start exercising. He didn’t just take that advice, he embraced it. He ran 11 marathons, countless 10Ks, and put in daily miles well into his early 80s, becoming a familiar sight around Valley View Park. When running gave way to walking, he kept going - steady, disciplined, and determined.

Sam was a constant presence in his kids’ and grandkids’ lives, coaching Bloomington Athletic Association teams, cheering from the sidelines in any weather, and quietly leading by example. He enjoyed gardening and baking bread on Saturday mornings. He was an active member of Saint Joan of Arc Church, where many knew him as “The Flasher” for running the song slides so the congregation could sing along.

He had a curious mind and a lifelong love of learning. Long before it was easy, he spent hours researching genealogy, walking cemeteries, and digging through records to understand where his family came from. He mastered the toughest Sudoku puzzles, took college classes later in life, and shared what he learned with anyone willing to listen, often turning topics like the History of Oil into something genuinely interesting.

He also gave back, serving meals to those in need and living out a quiet generosity that didn’t seek recognition.

This past year brought challenges with dementia, but even then, his wit and spirit still found their way through. The family would also like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful and caring staff at The Fountains of Hosanna in Lakeville for their extraordinary compassion and care of Sam during these past ten months.

Sam was preceded in death by his wife, Betty. He is survived by his children Steven, Daniel (Roxanne), David (Stephenie), Gary (Ann), and Karen (Kevin), along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who adored him.

Sam will be remembered as a steady, kind, and determined man who cared deeply, stayed curious, and lived his life to the fullest. His family feels incredibly grateful for the many years, memories, and lessons he leaves behind.

In his spirit - hug your people, show up, and enjoy the life you’ve been given.

Sam will be laid to rest in a private ceremony, next to his beloved wife Betty; fittingly, with a pair of his favorite running shoes. For those who knew him, learned from him, ran into him (often literally on a sidewalk), or were simply touched by his steady presence, we’d love for you to join us in celebrating his life. Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life on Saturday, May 2nd from 1:30 - 3:30 at the Fireside Lounge in Sam’s condo building (9600 Portland Avenue South, Bloomington). It will be a time to share stories, laughter, and memories; just the kind of gathering Sam always appreciated.