Funeral Details

Dear Magad Family, I am so sorry to hear of Sam's recent passing - I had the privilege of playing in the DePaul Trio with him (along with Stephen Balderston on cello) in the early 2000's and as a lifelong Chicago-area classical musician, it was a dream come true. I will never forget the warm voicemail Sam left me at the time our trio was formed, and the memory of a dinner with Sam and Miriam at L. Woods in Lincolnwood following one of our concerts will always be one of my favorite memories ever. He was a larger-than-life figure, a true collaborator, an amazing storyteller, a marvelous violinist, and a generous human being. Wishing all of you strength as you navigate the difficult days ahead - please know that your dad/grandfather/great-grandfather will be missed by many.

Timothy Mah

Mr. Magad accepted me as a student halfway through my senior year at Northwestern in 1977. I had already worked with him as an extra in the Chicago Symphony and on recording sessions, and we continued working together occasionally until I stopped freelancing in 1995. In all those years, I never called him by his first name. I was too much in awe of him to presume that familiarity. He was always the teacher, and I was proud that he would claim me as a student. He always spoke frankly to me about music and playing the violin, and I never outgrew his advice. He was more than a mentor; he was a hero. With the changing music business, his retirement, and the deaths of some of our mutual friends, I saw him hardly at all in recent years. Even so, I am devastated by his passing to a degree that startles me, and yet doesn't surprise me at all.

My wife Melanie (Cottle) and I both send our most heartfelt condolences to your family.

Pete Labella

Peter Labella

Condolences. I am so sorry I can't be with you.

Shom Klaff

Dear Magad Family,

My Parents, Terri and Larry Walner, were dear friends of Sam and Miriam. I was so sorry to hear about your father. My Father absolutely adored Sam-which says a lot, because my father was not exactly a man who handed out admiration freely. Both my parents spoke of your father with affection and admiration. I know they both treasured their friendship deeply.

I hope it brings you some comfort to know how much joy and respect your father inspired in the people who knew him. Thinking of you and your family during this difficult time.

With sympathy,

Mara Walner Chaiken

Mara Chaiken