The Bluffton and Ossian communities are in mourning following the tragic passing of 2023 Norwell High School graduate Samuel “Sam” Peterson. Sam died in a heartbreaking drowning accident, leaving friends, former teammates, and family in deep sorrow.
Sam, a proud alumnus of Norwell High School in Ossian, Indiana, was well known for his involvement in the school’s swim team. He earned recognition for his talent and dedication in the pool, consistently ranking among the top high school swimmers in the state during his seasons. In 2022-2023, he placed second with an impressive USA High School ranking of 434.55, and earlier in the 2020-2021 season, he had secured a fifth-place spot with a score of 406.00.
Norwell Community Schools shared a heartfelt statement:
“We are saddened to hear of the passing of 2023 Norwell graduate, Sam Peterson. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Peterson family during this difficult time.”
Those who knew Sam remember him as a joyful presence and a kind soul. Caitlin Bender, a fellow swimmer, wrote:
“I had the wonderful opportunity to swim with Sam while in high school. He never failed to make you smile and had the kindest soul. My prayers go out to the Peterson family.”
Family friends and community members have taken to social media to express their grief. Miriam Mortemore urged others to offer support to Sam’s mother, writing:
“Please be praying for my friend Cathie Moore Peterson and her family. I don’t have any details. Her son Sam died tragically.”
Another emotional message came from Eva Marie Millington, who extended her sympathy to the extended family:
“Oh my gosh no! This can’t be true….definitely will be praying for them. And also praying for his grandparents Candice Moore and Tom Moore. This is heartbreaking news.”
Sam’s tragic passing has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit Bluffton and Ossian communities. He is remembered not just for his achievements in the pool but for the light he brought into every room.
No official details about the circumstances of the drowning have been released yet. The community continues to rally around the Peterson family, offering love, prayers, and support as they navigate this unthinkable loss.