Community shocked, saddened by passing of Councilman Sam Leder
The community is shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of Concord City Councilman Sam Leder Sunday evening, June 30.
Leder returned Sunday from a two-week trip in Europe with his wife, Shannon, and sons, Matthew and Bennett. Matthew just graduated from Concord High School. The couple’s Facebook page is filled with photos of the smiling family at various European landmarks. Bennett is still in high school.
“With the passing of Sam Leder, Concord has lost a great citizen,” said Mayor Bill Dusch. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to Sam’s wife Shannon and sons Matthew and Bennett. As a member of Concord’s City Council, Sam was the thoughtful voice of reason that kept us on track. His infectious laugh that brightened anywhere he went will be missed by all.”
A native of Whiteville, he was a lifelong North Carolinian and proud alumnus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He lived and worked in Concord since 1995.
Dusch said the elected officials and staff of the City of Concord express their heartfelt sympathy to his wife, Shannon and their two sons, Matthew and Bennett. Funeral arrangements and reflections from Sam Leder’s City Council colleagues will be shared when available.
Friends and associates have expressed shock at his sudden passing. This post on the couples’ Facebook sums up the sentiments being expressed by family, friends and associates: “…My heart breaks for y'all. Sending many prayers your way for peace and comfort at this time.”
Congressman Richard Hudson called Leder “respected leader” for the community.
“I was shocked and saddened to hear that my friend Sam passed away last (Sunday)night,” said Hudson. “Renee and I are praying for his wife Shannon and their family in this difficult time. Sam has always been a respected leader in Concord, and I appreciate his years of service to the community and on City Council.”
An autopsy will be performed to determine the cause of death.
Leder, first elected in 2015, represented Concord’s First District. He was a Certified Public Accountant and managing partner for Potter & Company in Concord. He was an avid Tar Heels fan.