Samuel Pirozzolo

Sam (Sabato) Pirozzolo, 92 Successful immigrant, beloved family man On May 31, 2016, Sam died peacefully at his home surrounded by his family. He would have been 93- years-old this July 10. He was born in 1923 in Avellino, Italy. Sam immigrated to America in 1939. He lived in New Brighton until 1969 when he built the family home, the first all-electric house on Staten Island, near Silver Lake. He built several other custom homes. As a young man in Italy, Sam was an enthusiastic builder and racer of bicycles. Here in the United States, Sam attended McKee High School, and although never finishing, insisted that all his children go on to complete a college education. During World War II, he worked in a shipyard installing radar on Navy ships, as he was a talented electrician with his own tools. He also worked as an electrician for over 30 years at the former U.S. Gypsum Company. He was an avid gardener specializing in fruit trees. He was a member of the South Beach Bocce Club, Assumption Church Senior Citizens, and a longtime member of the Saint Bernardino Society. Sam loved being an American and traveled extensively throughout the United States. His motto was God Bless America, and insisted on singing the song at all family celebrations. Sam met his future wife, the former Marie Barone at P.S. 17 where she helped him to learn the English language. They were married for nearly 63 years before her death in 2009. He is survived by his children, Carmela Gallucci, spouse Anthony, Dr. Christine Gatti, spouse Rudy, Dr. Frank Pirozzolo, spouse Eileen, Nancy Lettiere, spouse Nick, and Sam Pirozzolo Jr., spouse Priscilla. Also surviving are 12 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and three more due this year. He is also survived by his sister, Victoria Rossi. Viewing is at Casey Funeral Home, Thursday, June 2, from 7 to 9 p.m., and Friday, June 3, from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Funeral Mass will be at 10 a.m. at Church of the Assumption, 15 Webster Avenue. Burial will be at St. Peter's Cemetery.