Samuel Salzberg

Samuel Michael Salzberg, "Michael"

Died: April 13, 2014
63 Years Old
Michael was known and beloved by many visitors to the State Capitol, where he worked as a historic site guide and costumed interpreter for the Minnesota Historical Society. For fifteen years, he shared the political history of the State of Minnesota with thousands of visitors (and elected officials).

Michael was born to Muriel Mildred Alexander and Herbert S. Salzberg in New York City, and grew up in Paterson, New Jersey. He graduated from Lafayette College in Easton, Pennsylvania, and New York University, where he earned a Master's Degree in History and completed all but the dissertation for his doctorate.

It was his quick wit, persuasive skills, and unselfconscious curiosity however, that guided his life. Michael was a voracious reader of history and politics. In 1983, he became the manager of John Crouch Tobacconist on the Concourse at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. His knowledge of political and military history allowed him to hold his own with generals, admirals, and everyone who ran the military. These skills served him well later, when he arrived in Minnesota and ended up at the Capitol. He could not be embarrassed or bested.

While in Arlington, Michael met Claudia Nicholson. The two married in 1986, and had their daughter and only child, Marianne Dannell Salzberg, in 1989. Michael then became a stay-at-home dad, working evenings and weekends in retail. They moved the family to Pierre, South Dakota, in 1990, and in 1997, arrived in St. Paul. Aside from his work, he enjoyed classical music and reading.

Michael leaves behind wife Claudia, daughter Marianne, and sister Julie Perlin of New York, NY, nieces, nephews, and in-laws. He will be remembered fondly by scores of friends and acquaintances.

A memorial service will be held at the James J. Hill House on Saturday, May 3, at 6:30 p.m. Family prefers memorials to the Musicians of the Minnesota Orchestra.