When Lori Tenbarge arrived at the 2025 Evansville Half Marathon, she was surrounded by a sea of familiar faces.
Friends. Family. Members of her church community.
Many were wearing matching “Soles for Sam” shirts—a tribute to her husband, Sam, and the lasting impact he continues to have on the people who knew and loved him. What began as a simple idea to honor his memory became a powerful reminder of the importance of health, community, and making the most of the time we’re given.
For Lori, the day wasn’t about looking back.
It was about celebrating a legacy that continues to inspire others to move forward.
A Life Centered on Faith, Family, and Others
Lori and Sam’s story began in Evansville, where both attended Memorial High School. After reconnecting following college, the two built a life together, raising three children and becoming deeply involved in their church and community.
Ask Lori about her husband, and one word comes up again and again: selfless.
Whether it was family, friends, coworkers, or fellow parishioners, Sam had a way of making people feel seen and supported. His faith was central to who he was, and the relationships he built left a lasting impression on countless people throughout the community.
An Unexpected Lesson
Like many busy parents, Sam often focused more on taking care of others than taking care of himself.
In 2019, encouraged by friends, Sam decided to train for the Evansville Half Marathon. What started as a personal challenge quickly became a family celebration, as loved ones lined the course to cheer him on. Their encouragement fueled every mile and made the experience one he treasured.
Tragically, Sam passed away unexpectedly five years later on the anniversary of his Half Marathon debut.
In the years that followed this tragedy, Lori and her children chose to honor his memory in a way that reflected both the man he was and the lessons his story left behind: take care of yourself, cherish your loved ones, and don’t wait to prioritize your health.
Turning Inspiration Into Action
That message came to life at the 2025 Evansville Half Marathon through “Soles for Sam.”
Nearly 40 friends and family members participated together, many wearing specially designed shirts featuring colors that reflected some of Sam’s favorite things—his beloved Cincinnati Reds and Memorial Tigers.
The event wasn’t about competition.
It was about encouragement.
It was about showing up for one another.
And it was about demonstrating that every step toward a healthier lifestyle matters.
For Lori, that’s exactly what she hopes others take away from her family’s story. You don’t have to run a half marathon. You don’t have to be the fastest person on the course. You simply have to start somewhere.
Whether that’s a walk around the neighborhood, a fitness class with friends, or scheduling a doctor’s appointment you’ve been putting off, small steps can make a big difference.
Today, Sam’s influence can still be seen in the lives of the people closest to him. His family has embraced healthier habits. Friends continue to encourage one another. And a community of supporters now carries forward a message that feels just as important today as ever.
Take care of yourself.
Take care of each other.
And keep moving forward.
