As a child, I remember my Uncle Sam as the man that knew how to be magical with a deck of playing cards.  With a signature twinkle in his eye, Uncle Sam created a sense of wonder for all us kids with his tricks.  But it was not until I was a young man that I had the chance to really appreciate and love what it meant to be to be an embraced member of his and my Aunt Joan's Endreola family.

First, for at least three straight years in the early 1990s, I spent Christmas Eve with the entire Endreola family.  It was a festive time with food, cookies and candy everywhere, and visitors spreading Christmas cheer.  In my mind, it was the quintessential Italian-American experience.  I was humbled to be included, so I dressed my best.  Uncle Sam commented that he liked my red sweater and asked if it was new.  I said it was not.  He asked do you remember what you wore last yearor the year before?  I did not.  I realized I was part of a good natured teasing, as both my Aunt Joan and Uncle Sam shared the pictures of past celebrationsand yes, that sameexactredsweater stood out in the family pictures not unlike a blazing beacon.  

Second, generosity with Uncle Sam was never in short supply.  As an example, in early 1990, I was having Sunday breakfast with my friend at a local restaurant on Victory Blvd.  After two hours and several refills of water, I asked the waitress if she was ever going to bring us the bill.  The waitress replied, No, but if you turn around, there is a couple somewhere in the back that paid your bill.  I turned aroundANDthere was my aunt and uncle enjoying each other's companyand delighting in my surprise.  

Third, about six months after my wife, Robin, and I were married, we purchased our first home near the base of the Verdugo Mountains in Glendale.  Our friendly next door neighbors, the DeChellis family, knew my uncle and aunt very well because they were all active members of the same Italian Club.  A remarkable coincidence!  So with Marv and Marie's DeChellis' help, we turned the tables on Uncle Sam and Aunt Joan and surprised them, to their delight, at the November Italian banquet.   

Lastly, in late July, 2012, our family treated Uncle Sam and Aunt Joan to Sunday brunch at the famous Magic Castle in Hollywood. The buffet was terrific and the magic performances were amazing.  It was just one of several outings that brought joy to my Aunt and Uncle.

As I reflect, it is clear that Uncle Sam's easy spirit and generosity lives on.  I remain eternally grateful to Aunt Joan and my eight cousinsDan, Deb, Dean, Dori, Dale, Diane, Darrin, and Don.  You all have uniquely enriched, and continue to enrich, my life.

Thank you, Uncle Sam, for the numerous and unmentioned memories of good times with the family. I love you, and will miss you.

James

I have several wonderful memories of Sam when I was growing up. He always had a smile and a joke to tell. He was such a character! May God grant him peace and eternal life. My sincere condolences to the entire Endreola family. May God give you peace during this difficult time

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Sam Endreola

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Sam John Endreola

June 7, 1924 – October 1, 2016

Pierce Brothers Valhalla Memorial Park and Mortuary

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