Saverio Pittelli

Sam learned, at an early age, the value of hard work and family. He began working with his father building sewers at 13 years old and left a few years later, like so many young men, to go defend his country in World War II. He served honorably in the army in Italy and received the Good Conduct Medal and a WWII Victory Medal. Later, he often regaled his family with his exploits during the war.

After the war he worked as a pile driver, spending most of his career working for Raymond International on many of the roads, bridges and tunnels up and down the Eastern seaboard.

He married the girl next door, well actually a few doors down, Viola Pittelli, in 1948 and they had four daughters. Viola and Sam were married for almost 60 years, she preceded him in death in 2007. She was the love of his life. A good friend once said: "the two were always amalgamated, fused into one being." After retirement the couple took driving trips around the country in their quest to visit all 50 states.

Sam loved to cook and bake and often shared the results with neighbors and family. He is most known for his famous "Samgria", a concoction that has graced the table of many a family celebration.

Sam leaves behind four daughters, Mary Pittelli, Valarie Coyle, Barbara Pittelli and Joann Pittelli and their Respective spouses, Paul Rodriguez, Kevin Coyle, Nick Sinisgalli and Michael Collette. He also leaves four grandchildren, Rebecca Meyer, Katharine Meyer, Olivia Sinisgalli and Matthew Sinisgalli and four great grandchildren. His family is raising a glass of his famous "Samgria". I hope he is dancing in heaven with his love.

Arrangements under the direction of R. Stutzmann & Son, Queens Village, NY.