Samuel Louis Morocco

In a conversation I had with a friend of my Father's recently, he shared fond memories of our father's generous and loving spirit and said they always referred to him as Mr. Music. How fitting a Legacy like that is. Our Father’s life was centered around music. Nothing made him happier, than seeing the faces in a crowd smiling, singing along, and enjoying his contagious happy energy.

Sam’s life started out rather meek, but he always persevered. At one point in his youth, he was a dog catcher for the City of San Jose. He also was a professional Umpire for the Semi Pro Baseball League in San Jose. He was a proud member of John P. Jarman and Mt. Moriah Masonic Lodges, with over 50 years of dedication to the order. At times, he could also be a force to be reckoned with. He fiercely loved his family.

As a young Army Corporal, he had the pleasure of joining the Army Band. After the Army (during the Korean War) he met and married our Mother, Donna Lee Hudson (Morocco) and they celebrated their lives together from 1958 through our Mother’s passing in 2003. They were both avid bowlers and enjoyed their friendships with the Senior League at 4th Street Bowl for many years.

Sam was a hard and dedicated worker. His career included driving trucks for McKesson Wine & Spirits, the Weighmaster at Kaiser Cement, shipping and receiving at a White Front Store, and various other jobs. When he retired, he was absolutely baffled…. He told me, he worked more volunteering and playing music than he ever did working. His life was full. Playing local senior homes, 4th of July events and jazz festivals, he enjoyed being a member of various music groups and his own little music crew: the Rhythm Masters.

What else can you say about a man who always put others needs in front of his own? A truly stellar friend to so many, he will always be remembered as “Mr. Music.” We should all be so lucky to have such an exemplary friend and father.

Sam leaves behind his two daughters, two son-in-laws, three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren and many nephews. His music lives on through his grandchildren, who are equally as musically talented as he was.

Visitation for Sam is from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, January 25, 2023 with a Rosary at 6 p.m. at Lima Family Erickson Memorial Chapel, 710 Willow Street, San Jose. A funeral mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, January 26, 2023 at St. Christopher Catholic Church, 2278 Booksin Ave, San Jose. Burial to follow from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Santa Clara Mission Cemetery, 490 Lincoln Street, Santa Clara.