DELMAR – Today we mourn the loss but celebrate the life of Samuel “Sam” Bozzella, a devoted husband, dad, grandfather and brother, a big man with a big heart. Sam passed away on Saturday, March 11, 2017, at the Eddy Memorial Geriatric Center in Troy. He was born in Oyster Bay, NY, the son of the late Anthony and Angelina Bozzella . He was pre deceased by his brother Joseph Bozzella in 1999.
Sam, “Sammy” often referred to as the “Music Man” of Bethlehem Central was a well respected music teacher and supervising teacher who inspired young students to appreciate, participate and enjoy the love of music. Whether it was conducting the wind ensemble, stage band, teaching privately, leading many band festivals and NYSSMA events, Mr. B. loved his work with his students and was a good guy to all.
Now we come to his other greatest joy in life, GOLF. As a former member of Wolfert’s Roost Country Club he participated in many tournaments locally and across the state, too many to mention. Sam’s respect, love and friends for the wonderful game of golf equaled his love for music and family. He had six hole in ones, three in one season, a feat many pros wish they could claim.
Sam will be missed by his wife Bev; son Gregson (Rachel); grandsons Riley and Gavin; sister Sandra Fuggini, sister-in-law Carmela Bozzella and numerous nephews. God Bless you Sam. You will be so missed.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, March 16, 2017 from 4 to 7pm in the Applebee Funeral Home, 403 Kenwood Ave., Delmar. A mass will be held on Friday, March 17, 2017, at 9:30am in the Church of St. Thomas the Apostle, 35 Adams Place, Delmar followed by the internment at Bethlehem Cemetery and a luncheon at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, on Elm Ave. in Delmar.
In lieu of flowers donations in Sam’s name may be made to Alzheimer’s Assoc., 4 Pine West Plaza #405, Albany, NY 12205 or The Community Hospice, Gift Processing Center, 310 S. Manning Blvd., Albany, NY 12208.