Resident of San Jose

The youngest of 6 children, Sam was born on June 16, 1926 in San Jose, CA to Giuseppe & Lena Cefalu. He passed away on October 11, 2023 on the land both he and his wife grew up on when it was just orchards. He served in World War II, landing in Okinawa just as the war ended. He farmed prunes, apricots and walnuts for many years in the Santa Clara Valley. Sam loved hunting and fishing but was most passionate about his garden.

He was a loving husband to Lillian (LaCorte) Cefalu, his wife of 71 years, and a loving father to Marie Stager (Dave), Annette Loskot, and Salvador Cefalu (Setareh) by whom he is survived. He was also an adored Nanno to Vincent Castagnolo (Britta), Michael Castagnolo, Danny Loskot, and Steven Loskot (Danielle), a loving great-grandfather to Giulia and Eva Castagnolo, and uncle to many nieces and nephews.

He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, Nanno, uncle, and friend to many. A special thank you to the Bon Homie Group and Redwood Hospice for their loving care and support during his final days, and especially to Bob for the 15 months of love and special care he gave to ‘Padre’.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Mass Tuesday, October 24, 2023 at 10:30 A.M. at St. Christopher Church, 2278 Booksin Avenue (At Curtner Avenue), San Jose. Interment to follow at Santa Clara Mission Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to your favorite children's charity or a charity of your choice in his name.