Samuel M. Sardina

Samuel M. Sardina age 82, of Utica, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday January 4, 2024, with his loving family by his side.

He was born in Utica on March 16, 1941, a son of the late Samuel E. and Mary DeFazio Sardina. He was a 1959 graduate of TR Proctor High School and also graduated with a BA degree from Utica College of Syracuse University. Sam served our country in the US Air Force from 1960-1964 being stationed both state side and at Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany where he spent most of his military time. On February 27, 1965 he was married to Joyce Sansone in Historic Old St. John’s Church Downtown Utica, a blessed union of nearly 59 years.

Sam began his employment as an elementary school teacher with the Ilion School District. He then transitioned in 1971 to employment with the Oneida County Probation Department where he enjoyed a 32 year career retiring in 2003 as the Supervisor and Senior Probation Officer overseeing the Rome, NY office.

In his younger years Sam was an avid sportsman, having played football, bowling and a variety of sports, having excelled in being a Gymnast, where he was named Air Force Champion during his military enlistment. He also loved to play golf and for more than 20 years hosted the “Sammy Small” Open which started as a small golf outing with family and friends and grew into a much bigger cherished end of summer event. He was a diehard Yankees and Giants fan and in the mid 70’s was an Assistant Football Coach with Notre Dame High School when lifelong friend Ben Rizzo was at the helm. In addition Sam spent many years coaching little league and cheering Proctor High School sports and Adrean Post baseball. Dad would not miss a game when his children and granddaughters participated and would often give specific poignant advice to the umpires. Over the years Sam enjoyed being a member at Stonebridge Country Club and Valley View Country Club spending countless days playing golf with his dear friends. He was also a member of the East Utica Optimist Club where he served as past president. Sammy always put family first and his greatest joy was to dote on his children and granddaughters. Papa gave unwavering love, support, and advice “Family is everything” was a favorite mantra. Sam was the life of the party and lit up every room he walked into leaving everyone smiling and laughing. Family trips to Atlantic City to visit his son Sam at the Borgata Casino were among his favorites. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, coach, and friend. His family will forever hold his memory in their hearts. Sam had many wonderful and devoted friends but it would be remiss not to mention the unwavering support of Louie, Ben, Larry, Freddy, Marie, Kathy, and Dee Dee.

Surviving is his beloved wife Joyce; two sons Samuel M. Sardina (Leanne McGiffin) of NJ and Laurence “Larry” Sardina (Sheryl Thrasher) of Frankfort; one daughter and son-in-law Stacy Sardina-Boisen and husband Eric; two cherished grandchildren Felice and Francesca Sardina-Boisen; two sisters-in-law and a brother-in-law Carmelita and James Royal of AZ. and Melanie Sardina of Utica; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. He was predeceased by two brothers, Paul and Charles Sardina.

His Mass of Christian Burial will be held on his birthday Saturday March 16, 2024, at 10:00 am in Historic Old St. John’s Church Downtown Utica, with all welcome to attend. Military honors will be conferred by the US Air Force.

Visitation will be one hour prior to his funeral mass from 9 am to 10 am in church. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Feed Our Vets, Utica

Sam’s family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Liu who was a great support over the past year as well as the compassionate staff at Faxton St. Lukes Healthcare Center and Cooperstown Bassett Healthcare.