The parents of popular sports journalist Sam Landsberger told how their only son brightened everyone’s lives at a memorial service at Temple Beth Israel synagogue in St Kilda.

The Herald Sun’s award-winning AFL and cricket reporter was on the phone with his mother while on his way to visit a friend when he was struck by a truck driven by a 45-year-old Seaford man at the intersection of Bridge Road and Church Street in Richmond, Melbourne, on August 20.

The 35-year-old later succumbed to his serious injuries in the Alfred Hospital.

Landsberger’s parents, Jake and Anne, remembered their youngest child and only son as a “caring and wonderful” person who would be sorely missed.

“About 22 years ago, our family stood in this same spot in this wonderful great hall celebrating Sam’s Bar Mitzvah, and now we find ourselves in this very hall and we are absolutely devastated,” said Dr. Landsberger.

“I have heard so many stories that parents should never bury their children, and yet we do.

“He was a dedicated, hard-working journalist who loved his job.”

“He brought so much joy into our lives. He brightened every room he walked into and he brightened our entire lives.”

Herald Sun award-winning sports journalist Sam Landsberger was farewelled after being hit and killed by a truck in Melbourne

Landsberger’s parents paid tribute to their son on Monday at his farewell after he was killed at the age of just 35

Dr. Landsberger said his son’s second-grade teacher called him a “diamond” and that was the perfect word to describe him.

Dr. Landsberger, a former Western Bulldogs doctor, recalled his favorite story about his son when he was 10 years old.

“Sam had vomited all over his front, his chest was bright yellow,” he said.

“I lifted him over the fence and we went into the rooms to examine him… (only to find out) that he was sick because he had just eaten a giant bag of Cheezels.”

“From then on, every club member called him Cheezels.”

“At this moment we feel indescribable shock, but also great gratitude for what he gave us. He was a beautiful, caring young man who we will never forget and who will always be in our hearts.”

Since news of his death broke, the AFL and sporting communities have shared fond memories of the man who spent his career writing about the highs and lows of each game.

His relatives will say goodbye to Landsberger on Tuesday at Temple Beth Israel in St. Kilda.

“The entire AFL football community is shocked and saddened to hear of the sudden death of Sam in a tragic road traffic accident,” his online obituary said.

“As well as being a talented and respected journalist, Sam was also an ardent Bulldogs fan and had close family ties through his father Jake, former long-serving Western Bulldogs Club Medical Officer and lifelong member of the Bulldogs.

“His enthusiasm for the game and passion for his work were always evident and all who knew and worked with him will fondly remember his positive attitude and friendly nature.”

“Sincere condolences to Jake, Anne, Jess, Sarah and all his extended family, friends and colleagues.”

Landsberger receives the Melbourne Press Club award during his career as a sports journalist

Meanwhile, the Seaford man who was driving the truck that hit Landsberger is due to appear in Melbourne Magistrates Court on September 19.

He was charged with refusing to provide a blood sample to police after the accident.

In addition, the man was banned from driving until his first court date.

The 45-year-old was subjected to the usual roadside alcohol and drug tests, both of which were negative.