Sabato “Sam” Laurito

Sabato “Sam” Laurito, age 83, of Wayne passed away peacefully as a result of complications of the Coronavirus on Saturday, April 11, 2020, at The Atrium at Wayne.

Sam was born on October 17, 1936, in Paterson, New Jersey to Pasquale and Anna (Merola) Laurito.  Upon graduating from High School in 1954, Sam’s love of construction, led him to be a Sheetrock Installer.  He was a proud member of the Carpenter’s Union Local 253 for 40 years.

On April 5, 1959, Sam married his sweetheart, Joan D’Andrea. They have been married for 61 years and they raised one daughter, Marianne, who will always hold her caring and kind-hearted father in her heart. Sam adored his daughter, Marianne, and on the weekends, the family enjoyed taking car rides to different places and finding new ice cream parlors.

Sam was always on the move!  He enjoyed playing Pinochle and hanging out with his friends Peppo, Ralph DeMarco, Richie Rizzo, Jerry Giannella, Champ Rana, Charlie Presta and Julius Funicello at the Riverside Vets and St. Anthony’s Club in Paterson.  His favorite hobbies included: football, horseracing and visiting Atlantic City to play Dice and Blackjack.

Sam’s favorite vacation spot was Myrtle Beach.  He and Joan enjoyed visiting his Brother-In-Law, Gerald Zisa and late Sister, Eleanor Zisa, where they spent summer vacations on the beach and dining out.  Back home in Jersey, Sam cherished his Sister, Frances and Brother-In-Law, Bill Gulino’s company at their home in Wayne or dining at McDonalds!   Sam also enjoyed visiting his daughter and son-in-law’s home in Howell, where he relaxed by the pool and watched sports.  He would always say, “my son-in-law, Jim treats me better than a son”.

Poppy, as he was known to his Grandsons, Christopher and Dylan, was a dedicated Grandfather, who always cheered for them when they played sports such as football, basketball and baseball.  Poppy was always very proud of them and everyone knew who he was cheering for!

Sam is survived by his Wife, Joan Marra D’Andrea Laurito; Daughter, Marianne Laurito McVeigh and her Husband, Jim of Howell; and his Grandsons, Christopher and Dylan.  He was also loved by his Grand-doggie, Sparky Julius.  Sam is also survived by his Sister, Frances Gulino and her Husband, Bill; Brother-In-Law, Gerald Zisa. and many nieces and nephews.  Sam was predeceased by his Sister, Eleanor Zisa.  He will be missed by all, because he always had a funny joke or story to tell.