Sam Reichert, Highway Commissioner (2003-2014)
A lifetime resident of Plainfield, Samuel L. Reichert, Jr. was born here November 27, 1955. He was a graduate of Plainfield High School, class of 1973. He was married for thirty-one years to Lynn (Harmon) Reichert, and they are the parents of two children – Tim Harmon, a graduate of the American Academy of Art in Chicago with a degree in graphic design, and Sunny Reichert, a graduate of Cal State Northridge with a degree in Media Journalism. Work began as a youngster helping Dad, Sam Sr., at the family gas station where he learned the mechanical trade and helped with towing vehicles. After his dad retired, Sam opened “Sam’s Service Station” on Division Street in 1981. This business continued until he sold the property in the late 90’s.
Being an expert mechanic, he was hired by the Plainfield Township Highway Department in 1998 as a foreman, he was also in charge of the daily operations of the highway department when the highway commissioner was out of the office on official business. This experience led to his appointment as Highway Commissioner by the Plainfield Township Board when Tom Leonard retired in November of 2003. In 2005, Sam ran for, and was elected to, the position of Highway Commissioner. In 2009 Sam was re-elected as your Highway Commissioner and served up until is unexpected passing in October 2014.
Being self-employed most of his adult life, taught him great people skills and leadership qualities. Sam was knowledgeable in many trades, had good business sense, and was a great problem solver. He was also a perfectionist who believed that no job is complete until it is done the right way. One of his greatest accomplishments as Highway Commissioner was the completion of the Renwick Road Bridge in October 2012.
On June 26, 2015 Highway Commissioner Marland renamed the Renwick Road Bridge in memory of Samuel “Sam” Reichert, Jr. This dedication will permanently honor and remember Sam for the love he had for Plainfield.