With profound sadness and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Sam, loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, uncle, best friend and mentor. At the age of 78, Sam passed peacefully at home, as was his final wish, surrounded by his family.
He is survived by the love of his life, Carolina, married 52 years. Sadly, missed by daughter Jett (Bert), son Ryan (Daniela) and son Stefano. Grandfather to Tawni (Scott) and Dylan (Danielle) and great grandfather to Quintin, Cayden, Kaylee and Kane. Brother to Victor (Joanne), Joe (Susan), Josie (Tony) and his very close friend Rob. He was predeceased by his parents, Giovanna and Francesco.
Born February 6, 1941 in Villagrazia, Sicily and immigrated to Winnipeg in 1952. In 1961, he met Carolina Cantafio at a church event and they married 5 years later. They welcomed their first child, Jett, followed by Ryan and then Stefano. The whole family moved to Sooke in 1980, opened Salvatore’s Hair Salon and quickly became beloved members of the community.
In Winnipeg, Sam was a member of the Optimist Club. In Sooke, he was involved with Stage West Players in a variety of roles; actor, director, playwright, producer and stylist. Stage West recently made him an honorary lifetime member. He was a longtime lodge member of the Sooke Freemasons, also acting as Master Mason. In Victoria, he was involved in the Victoria Operatic Society, a Victoria Barbershop Chorus member, along with several quartets.
Sam was a dedicated, loyal and selfless man with the patience of a saint. You could always rely on him to warm up any room with a friendly smile and had a sense of humour all his own. He will be greatly missed by many but will live on in our hearts.
A Memorial Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, January 15, 2020 at 3:00 pm in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, officiated by Gordon Thurston and Erik Trovall.
Our service today is being live stream. If you are unable to attend, please click on the link below.
The entire family would like to convey our deepest gratitude to the staff on 4 South and the Home Dialysis Unit at the Royal Jubilee Hospital, Victoria Hospice and Home and Community Care Nursing. Special thanks to Dr. Saunders, Dr. Weir and Dr. Maskey for your compassionate care.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to one of the following; Victoria Hospice or the Kidney Foundation of Victoria.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
62 Responses
Carol and family, I am so sorry with the loss of your Sam. He was such a wonderful, remarkable person. He’s left so many great memories with so many people in this world and he’ll be forever missed. You’re all in my thoughts in these difficult times.
Love Janna
Our deepest condolences to the whole family and to our friend Rob. Thinking of you all at this very sad time. John, Alice & Will
Carol & Family,
We were so sorry to hear of Sam’s passing. Our deepest condolences to you and your family at this time.’
Ken, Zennie, Kyler & Qionna Fyfe
To Carol and family:
Sam was such a kind joyful handsome man who made all around him feel welcomed and special. He wore is love for his family proudly on his face. He was proud of those that came before him and those here now. He has left a legacy of love no one can deny or forget. Heaven gained a truly special angel. Thinking of you all with sympathy and love cousins Maria Lovallo Turner, Dawn, Don, Shawna, Devyn & Lindsay May you find comfort in God and your memories.
Dear Carol and Family We share in your great loss of a wonderful man
Our prayers are with you all
Bob , Bridget and family
Sam is not lost but will always remain in our hearts ♥️. He lived a wonderful and full life touching many hearts. Sam and Carol were also godparents to my son. May the eternal light of God shine upon him. Cousin Sam.
Dear Carole, Victor, Josie and family – I am so sorry to hear of Sam’s passing. I well remember meeting the four of you in Fiddler on the Roof nearly 30 years ago, and Sam’s lovely smile is in my memory still. He was kind, funny, thoughtful, and a real gentleman. I feel lucky to have been part of that production, and lucky every time I ran into him afterwards – Pasta Night, musical events, and other community theatre shows. His smile lit up the room.
I am so sorry that I can’t be at the service on Wednesday – but please know that my heart will be with you, and it aches for you all. I am so sorry for your terrible loss.
Suzanne Bell
To Carol, family and friends.
We share in the immense sense of loss your are facing. Always a kind, encouraging and gentle friend, Sam leaves a legacy that will continue to inspire all those who knew him.
We send our love and heartfelt condolences.
Allan and Geri Jacques
Dear Carol & Family
We are so sorry to hear about your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this
very sad & difficult time.
Love Cousins Stella, Gabriele & Family
Dear Carol & Family
Thinking of you at this very sad time. Our sincerest condolences
to you all.
Love cousins, Toni, Joe & Paul Donvito