Obituary of Salvatore Ammirati

On Friday, June 13, 2008 our beloved father, husband, brother, uncle and friend passed away prematurely, and has joined his favourite brother-in-law, John Cortese, with God at the age of 62 years while fishing at McGregor Lake, AB. Salvatore was a well-liked and respected founding member of the Del-Rich Meadows community just outside of Calgary. He was born in Castelsilano, Italy on February 23, 1946, the second youngest brother in a family of nine. He left his hometown as a youngster to find work and contribute to his family back home. He voluntarily joined the Italian military at the age of twenty, where he achieved the rank of Sergeant and earned a medal of bravery during his service. In 1971 he returned home and married Maria Cortese. They immigrated to Calgary together and began their lifelong union. As newlyweds, Sam and Maria quickly began a family raising two children together while he worked continually as the founder of Sam’s Decorating for thirty-seven years. His business was successful thanks to his dedicated work ethic, quality craftsmanship and memorable personality. Sam’s good humour and infectious laugh left everyone around him feeling comfortable and entertained. He will be forever remembered by his friends and family for his operatic voice and his passion for singing. Sam will be missed and loved by all who knew him. Besides his beloved wife Maria, Sam is survived by one son, Matteo and his fiance, Jen Watson; and one daughter, Lisa and her fiance, Russ Porosky. He also leaves behind seven siblings, Saverio, Sisina, Marietta, and Caterina, all residing in Italy; Isabella, Vincenza, and his favourite brother, Francesco, all of Calgary; and all his relatives, in-laws, nieces, and nephews who will miss him dearly. Sam was predeceased by his parents, Matteo and Luisa; as well as one sister, Rosinella. Relatives and friends are invited to Prayers and Tributes at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY’S Chapel of the Bells (2720 Centre Street North) on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 8:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of Grace Italian and English Catholic Church (1714 – 14th Avenue N.E.) on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. Graveside Service to follow at Queen’s Park Mausoleum. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. In living memory of Sam Ammirati, a tree will be planted at Fletcher Park, Airdrie by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES Chapel of the Bells, 2720 CENTRE STREET NORTH. Telephone: (403) 276-2296.