Shorewood, Wisconsin
Armato, Samuel A. "Sam" Died peacefully in his sleep on December 31, 2014 at the age of 98. Longtime resident of Glendale. Beloved husband of Janet (nee Sandison) for 30 years and the late Bernice (nee Bushaw). Dear brother of Lillian (the late Louis) Orlando, Angelina (the late Harold) Koell and the late Joseph Armato. Further survived by loving nieces and nephews, other relatives, fellow musicians and wonderful friends. Sam's life revolved around music; from the age of 3 he lived and breathed music. He played with several bands over the years starting in 1927 with the Ritz Vagabonds. From that job he saved enough money to buy a C-Melody saxophone at the age of 12. During WWII Sam served in the Pacific with the US Army Air Force Band entertaining the troops. Throughout the years he formed several bands and played with Woody Herman and Dick Ruedebusch to name a few. Sam also worked in the broadcast industry as a staff musician and vocalist for WTMJ. Sam will be greatly missed but his love of music will live on in the hearts of all who played beside him and those who lived life with him. Visitation will take place on Monday, January 5, at the Feerick Funeral Home from 10:00 AM until noon with a service celebrating his life at noon. A reception at the funeral home will follow the service. Interment will be private at Holy Cross Cemetery. In Sam's name memorials would be appreciated to the Milwaukee Rescue Mission, 830 N 12th St, Milwaukee, WI 53233 or the Alzheimer's Association, 620 S 76th St, Suite 160, Milwaukee, WI 53214.
On behalf of everyone here at the Alzheimer's Association - thank you so much for thinking of us at this time of loss to your family. Memorial donations made in Samuel's name will be put to immediate use serving families and supporting research. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Tom Hlavacek, Executive Director
Alzheimer's Association of Southeastern Wisconsin
January 05, 2015 | Milwaukee, WI
We are saddened by the news of Sam's passing. Sam will be terribly missed.
Please know that you are surrounded by the Love and comfort of many family and friends who are all here for you. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Love, Tracey, Ali and Rebekah
January 04, 2015
To no longer be able to hear his notes, played his way-- is another heartbreak to those of us who love to hear quality jazz music. He was a sweet man-- and will be missed. Gentle hugs to his family and friends. Sonja
January 04, 2015
As a former Wisconsin Area Music Industry President, the Wisconsin music community expresses their heartfelt condolences on the loss of Sam. -James McMahon-
January 04, 2015
A huge loss to the music industry. Sam was the best clarinet player I have ever worked with. All of the musicians in our area will truly miss him.
Fank Charles
January 03, 2015 | Milwaukee, WI
