Sam Migliore

Sam Migliore found a friend in everyone he met – and usually a nickname, too! Generous and determined, Sam loved life, and lived his to the fullest. He was a rock of strength, and worked ceaselessly to provide for his loved ones. Sam’s sense of humor, steadfast determination, and zest for life will live on in the hearts and memories of all those who had the privilege of knowing this remarkable man.

Sam was born on January 24, 1923, to proud parents Philip and Rose (Montante) Migliore. He grew up in a large family, with four brothers to keep things interesting: Russ, Joe, Phil, and Herman. Sam was a boisterous and energetic child; in fact, his mother affectionately called him a “wild Indian” and a troublemaker. The Migliore family lived in Detroit, Michigan, with a home on the Eastside. Philip originally worked at Ford Motor, then went on to own a grocery store, and eventually started his own pizzeria. Rose was a homemaker, managing the household and raising the children.

After graduating from Old Northern High School, Sam went on to the Henry Ford Trade School. He was drafted into Officer school in Buffalo, New York, but was sent overseas in 1943, before he had a chance to finish the program. He was sent to India, where he helped to airlift in supplies. Sam served his country bravely and honorably, and was discharged in 1946 as a Private First Class.

Back home in the States, Sam started out working for his father in the restaurant trade. He eventually went into business for himself, however, and started a fastener business in his basement.

In the meantime, Sam had met the woman who would be the love of his life, Crocifisa Marino. Sam had glimpsed Crocifisa reading a newspaper on her front porch, and struck up a conversation by offering her a stick of gum. Great things start from humble beginnings, and Sam and Crocifisa gradually fell in love. They were married, and in the years to come were blessed with five children: Sam, Russ, Gino, Margaret, and Luisa.

Sam was a hard worker, and loved the challenge of business. When he wasn’t hard at work, he enjoyed gardening, especially roses and vegetables. He enjoyed the pleasures of the table, and had a weakness for pasta. Sam was also a member of the VFW, and loved attending opera and theatre performances.

As his children grew up and started families of their own, Sam was delighted to become a grandfather. He always had time for his grandkids, and took them on excursions to get ice cream and to flatten pennies on the Ann Arbor railroad tracks. He loved putting smiles on their faces, and would put dirty hankies and bows on his head to make the grandkids laugh. Family togetherness was important to Sam, and every year for fifteen years he organized family cruises and all-inclusive trips for Christmas.

Strong and determined, generous and funny, Sam was a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, and a loyal friend. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his many friends and family members.

Sam Migliore died on January 5, 2013, at the age of 89. Sam’s family includes beloved wife, Crocifisa; his children, Sam, Russ (Rosa), Gino, Margaret (Gary Wade), Courtade, and Luisa (Jim Dawson) Migliore; his grandchildren, Paula (Jerry) Weible, Jennifer, Erica (Steve) Brennan, Jackie, Theresa Tadeo, and Lt. Robert Courtade U.S.A.F.; and his great-grandchildren, Aiden and Irelinn Weible and Vincent Brennan.

Friends are invited to join the family for visitation from 2 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday at the Neely-Turowski Funeral Home, 45100 Warren Rd (west of Sheldon). Services will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday at the funeral home. Interment will be at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly. Please visit Sam’s personal memory page at www.lifestorynet.com, where you can learn more about her life, share a favorite memory or photo, and sign the online guestbook.