Obituary of Sam Jablonka

October 19, 2022 - Calgary, Alberta

On October 19, 2022 Sam Jablonka, loving husband of Gail Poole, passed away peacefully in Calgary, AB after a tenacious battle with cancer. Together they focused on living, never the battle and to that end their love story is timeless.

Sam’s honesty and loyalty earned him the reputation of being a trustworthy friend to many. His happy-spirited nature created an atmosphere of inclusion and kindness in any situation. He always put others before himself, ensuring that those around him felt like they were the center of attention. He had a gift for creating camaraderie in the most unique of circumstances and you knew that if Sam was in the room, you were going to be touched by his positivity and sincerity.

If there were anyone, it would be Sam who had the most contagious of laughs. His wit and intelligence captured an audience through his remarkable storytelling. There was never a story too short or too long that Sam couldn’t engage through his quiet grace, savvy, and perfectly timed delivery. He made people’s day without even trying.

Sam touched so many during his time in the hospitality industry. He was committed to seeing those around him succeed and supported anyone who had a vision. He was open-minded but private, structured but adaptable; but mostly he will be remembered for the positive impact he had on friends and family near and far. The consummate gentleman who wore fairness like a cloak. His personal successes are a testament to his innovative and resilient acumen.

Memories were made with many friends travelling to the Caribbean and other tropical destinations with CJAY 92 back in the day. Spending time in Las Vegas, Scottsdale, and Palm Desert were annual. Sam loved the game, all games in fact, but he had a special love for horse racing. Anyone who knew Sam knew he was the ultimate sports fan. A statistical guru especially when it came to golf, baseball, hockey, and football, of course. Sam’s not-so-guilty pleasures included a dry glass of sauvignon blanc, a perfectly prepared steak, and the occasional Big Bang Theory.

What made Sam’s heart truly full was spending time with the people he loved. Taking his nieces, Shaylynn and Megan (his goddaughter) on trips and new adventures. Seeing them see things for the first time was a true joy for Sam. He especially loved New Year’s Eve with the girls. They dressed up, or down, played games, danced, and celebrated the ball dropping in hopes of a bright wonderful year ahead. He was a devoted son to his mother Magda, his father Kalman (deceased), and a loyal brother to Al. Sam enjoyed trips to Vancouver to spend time with Al, he especially enjoyed the Granville Island Market. Al has been a devoted brother to Sam every step of this journey.

Sam was an incredibly generous soul and became a son and brother to Gail’s family. His memory will live on with Verna Kozak, Lori-Ann Kozak, Randy (Mary) Kozak and Keith (Colleen) Kozak, and all the nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service will be held at the Beth Tzedec Synagogue, (1325 Glenmore Trail SW) on Friday, October 21, 2022, at 12:00 p.m. with interment to follow at Beth Tzedec Memorial Park Cemetery. Condolences, memories, and photos can also be shared and viewed here.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Foothills Medical Centre - Unit 47, Intensive Palliative Care Unit, www.calgaryhealthfoundation.ca, - Donate, Area of Healthcare “Foothills Medical Centre” and identify UNIT 47, IPCU under the “I’m giving today because…”

We’d like to thank all the nurses and staff on Unit 47 in the Intensive Palliative Care Unit at the Foothills Medical Centre, a special thank you to Dr. Loftus and Dr. Ramji whose compassion and understanding gave us strength through the palliative care journey.

Arrangements in care of the CHEVRA KADISHA OF CALGARY, Telephone: 403-244-4717.