Salvatore "Sammy" ARENA

ARENA, Salvatore "Sammy" 81, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2012, after a prolonged illness. Gifted with a beautiful voice, Sammy and his twin Andrew, were entertainers and professional singers. Sammy served in the Korean War and was awarded the USO's prestigious Great American Award along with many other humanitarian citations. In 1994, he received a kidney transplant through Lifelink and went on to participate in the Transplant Games. He continued to be an active supporter of Lifelink to the very end. He was a Knight and a lifetime member of the Krewe of the Knights of Sant' Yago. Predeceased by his parents, Antonio and Grace; is survived by his sons, Sammy & wife, Kristina, Jimmy and Chris; along with four grandchildren, Trace, Emerson, Sloan and Ansley. He is also survived by his twin, Andrew; brother, Anthony; sister, Marie & husband, Don; as well as many nieces & nephews. His family would like to thank Lifelink, along with the many doctors, nurses and care givers that have helped him through the years. They would also like to thank the Hospice Burgandy Team. He did it HIS WAY. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Lifelink Tampa in Sammy's memory. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday afternoon, Dec. 8th, at 1 pm at St. Lawrence Catholic Church. The family will receive friends from 12 noon until time of memorial service at the church. Please send online condolences to: www.jgrfuneralhome.