Sam Lombardo

SAM JOSEPH LOMBARDO, loving husband, father and grandfather, passed away on February 13, 2021, at the age of 77.

Sam was born on June 2, 1943 to Sam and Jean Lombardo of Cleveland, Ohio.  He was a graduate of Valley Forge Military Academy and attended Bowling Green State University.  He continued in his father’s footsteps at the helm of L&M Properties Company until his retirement.  On October 2, 1981, his love for life was enhanced a thousandfold when he married Kathleen Decker.  They joyfully raised two daughters and delighted in welcoming and doting on their two beloved grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his father, Samuel C. Lombardo and his mother, Jean R. Lombardo.  He is survived by his wife Kathleen, daughters Leah (Matthew MacRaild) and Samantha, and two grandchildren; beloved uncle and dear friend of many.

Sam had a passion for the water and was an avid boater, SCUBA diver and aquarist throughout his life.  It was because of his diving experiences that he maintained a 100-gallon saltwater aquarium at home for many years.  He was a Cedar Point enthusiast and instilled in his daughters that the first car was the best car on any roller coaster.  Sam was also a devoted aficionado of the Cleveland Metroparks and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, where he and his wife spent many happy hours exploring and accompanied by his beloved dog, Mitzi.  Sam will continue to be known and remembered for his enthusiastic smile, his kindness and his compassionate spirit.  He will be missed deeply by those left behind.  His memory will be preserved in countless photographs, his generous heart, his contagious laugh and his love for his family.  While we cannot understand why Alzheimer’s took the last years of his life, we know in our hearts that he was met by his loving family and friends at the gates of Heaven.  Until we all meet again, we love and miss you.

Visitation Thursday, February 18, 2021 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Nosek-McCreery Funeral Home, 8150 Brecksville Rd., Brecksville, OH.  Facial coverings are required.  You are encouraged to share your thoughts, memories, and stories about Sam by clicking on the “Tribute Wall” button above.

Mass of Christian burial on Friday, February 19, 2021 at 1:00 pm at St. Basil the Great Catholic Church, 8700 Brecksville Rd., Brecksville, OH (PLEASE MEET AT CHURCH).

The family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, remembrances be made in the form of contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association, 23215 Commerce Park, Suite 300, Beachwood, OH 44122 or the Hospice of the Western Reserve, 17876 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, OH 44110. 

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