Sam Zelikson

Living to 95 years old, Sam cultivated a life of joy, always surrounding himself with family and friends. Despite losing so many, Sam remained strong, “ a true survivor”.

Sam was born in Dvinsk, Latvia. He survived the Daugavpils ghetto, in addition to five different concentration camps, losing his entire family—mother, father, brothers, aunts, uncles, and many extended family members in the Holocaust. Yet he never held any resentment for the challenges he faced in life. Even more so he would continually thrive and keep thriving.

After the war Sam arrived at Ellis Island, New York in 1950. On a blind date at Coney Island, he met the love of his life, Janice, his Shayndel. Sam and Janice (predeceased him) had five children: Helene, Barry (predeceased him), Alice, Denise, and Linda. He was blessed with three grandchildren, Brett (wife Kirstie), Ean, and Lori. Sam always held his children and grandchildren close to his heart, even in his last days. His home has always radiated the kindness and warmth reserved for their family and friends including his nephew Alan, nieces Thea and Audrey and great-nephew Adam and great-nieces Ruthie and Tabitha.

In New York, Sam found his calling as a glazier. In his work he has left traces of himself all around the city that he loved. Without fear he left a mark of his work when he once installed glass at the top of the Empire State Building. As he always said “I’m not afraid of anything.”

Sam enjoyed engaging with others in warmth. He was not only famous for his embracing bear hugs but for his strong squeezing handshake which he loved to do even in his 90s. In his free time, Sam enjoyed watching sports and attending games especially baseball, soccer and football. His New York teams, especially his Jets and Yankees were the ones he rooted for the most. Besides playing soccer In Europe during his younger years, Sam became an avid and passionate rummy player. It was a special hobby in which his skill never faltered. Everyone that knew that at one time or another they would end up losing a game or two of rummy to him.

Sam left an impact on so many lives, not because of what he went through, but rather from the strength with which he built a life he loved. Sam Zelikson will forever be missed by those who loved him.