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Sam Segari Obituary

SAM SEGARI, an admired and well-respected local restaurateur, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday evening, the 11th of August 2005. Sam is survived by his wife, Bonnie Crenshaw Segari; daughter, Angela Segari; nephew, Shane Segari; nieces, Shayna and Madlyn Segari; and brothers, John and Jimmy Segari. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Breanna Dempsey and Owen Greenwood; and stepson, Kevin Dempsey. Sam also leaves behind his beloved dogs, Palacios and T & T. The funeral service will be conducted at four o'clock in the afternoon on Wednesday, the 17th of August, in the Jasek Chapel of Geo. H. Lewis & Sons in Houston. A private inurnment ceremony, for the family to attend, will occur at Glenwood Cemetery in Houston on a later day. In lieu of usual remembrances, the family suggests memorials in Sam's name be directed to Susan's Rally, 3820 San Jacinto St., Houston, TX, 77004; or to the American Diabetes Association, 2400 Augusta Dr., Suite 175, Houston, TX, 77057

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Houston Chronicle from Aug. 14 to Aug. 16, 2005.

Memories and Condolences
for Sam Segari

Sponsored by Sherry LeBlanc, a friend.

Not sure what to say?





Terri

February 12, 2010

Good bye, wonderful friend. The world is a little smaller now without you in it.

Sam, Jim Darcy and son Rick Darcy (1964)

July 19, 2006

Angela, Sam & Bonnie

January 19, 2006

Steven Zager

September 12, 2005

Sam would greet me most days with" "good to see you, now I can pay the rent this month." Other days when I complimented his food, he would tell me "the microwave is working well today." He served great food to friends with good humor and he left us too soon and I sure miss him.

Deborah Johnson

September 9, 2005

Words Cannot express my sadness
when I heard of Sam's death. He
was a GREAT Man.

Kelly & Dale Weigel

August 23, 2005

We were very sorry to hear of Sam's passing and send our condolences to his family and friends. We didn't know him that well, but we always enjoyed going to the resturant when we were in town, and hearing what was going on with him. We appreciated his kindness to our family throughout the years. We will miss him.

Alexander and Teresa Kliebert

August 22, 2005

Dear Bonnie, we are so sorry for your loss. This must be a very difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Betsy Parish

August 19, 2005

Sam Segari will be missed by Houstonians from every walk of life. He was equally at ease with the boldfaced types as he was with the man on the street and to each he was a never just an acquaintance, but always a true friend. With his inimitable self-effacing humor and jovial, upbeat personality, he was one of Our Town's most memorable citizens. And the memories he left behind will be treasured by all who luckily crossed his path, whether it was at Brennan's for his popular 25 cent martinis in the early 1970s, or at Sam's Song, Second Verse or George's for a drink during the 1980s or for stuffed shrimp with jalapenos in the 1990s and well into the 21st century at his latest restaurants. Like his last restaurant that had no sign, yet everyone knew where it was, the memories of Sam Segari will easily be found. They are in the hearts and minds of all who had the privilege of knowing him, no matter where or when. Rest in peace, dear friend.

Carolyn Rollison

August 18, 2005

I had the priviledge of meeting Sam and being exposed to his wonderful hospitality, unique personality, and great food as a result of his friendship with Julian Doolin and John Leija. Sam was all about bringing interesting people together for the cause of a good time with all the right ingredients. He taught us all that life is short and that each day should be enjoyed to the fullest, just as he lived. Sympathy and prayers to his family.

Vicki Buckelew

August 18, 2005

Sammy was one of the best freinds I have ever had & at the funeral yesterday, it was heartwarming to see so many other people felt the same way. Sam had a way of making everyone feel they special & a good freind. We will all grieve at Sam's passing, he was one of the truly wonderfully unique people of this would.



Bonnie, my heart goes out to you, to lose your love so soon. Because Sammy & I both married later in life & just a few months apart, we spoke often of our spouses. He remarked on how much happiness his marriage had brought him.



My condolences to all of Sam's family, especially Angela, you were the light of his life. Also to Sherry, you were a very true & loyal freind.

I wish I could write something to all of you to ease the pain you feel. All I can say is we are all better for having known Sam Segari & he will always be remembered.

Charlotte Russell

August 17, 2005

While reading the touching words expressed by all that signed this guest book it is quite apparent that my husband and I are only two of many, many people that will miss Sam. He was a unique and special guy that had his own way of making you feel welcome at Sam Segari's. We send our condolences to the family of Sam, may God bless you all.



Karl & Charlotte Russell

Craig Johnson

August 17, 2005

It has been a long time since I last spoke with Sam. What a terrific guy. Always quick to beam a big smile and crack a joke. If my Dad were still alive, he would be deeply saddened to hear of Sam’s departure. However, I’m sure they are up there together slapping each other on the back and telling jokes.



As I seem to recall, my Dad, CW Johnson, brought Sam into the “business” some 40+ years ago as a “kid” not afraid of hard work and willing to do just about anything to make a buck. Dad always commented on Sam’s willingness to put in a hard days work and still be smiling the end of the day (or night, or very early morning). Sammy, as I always called him, seems more like a family member. His presence goes back nearly as far as I can remember. I guess I first met him when I was 7 or 8 years old. I really can’t remember. But what I do remember is that Sam taught me to bartend. In fact, around 1974 Sam gave me my first bartending job at Brennan’s Restaurant in Houston before I was even old enough to do so. I had been with Brennan’s nearly 11 months when the general manager discovered I was only 17 years old and promptly fired me.



Dad always had the highest respect and admiration for Sam. I have to concur. Even though it has been many years since I have spoken with Sam, I will truly miss him. We will all miss him. Godspeed Sam.

A fan of Sam's

August 17, 2005

Sam was a great business man. We loved eating at Segari's. I was reminded to pull his reviews up on

BE4UEAT.COM AND HE WAS OBVIOUSLY WELL LIKED!

Harold Gunn

August 17, 2005

Today my family will say "so long for awhile" to our old friend Sam. For over 30 years we shared a few bad times and many, many good ones. The closest I ever came to explaining Sam's unique brand of hospitality was that his place was like "Cheers" with great food and you should consider yourself lucky if he put up with your b.s. We love him and shall greatly miss him. Our love to Angela, Bonnie, Sammy's family and friends.

Beth, Warren, Gloria and Harold Gunn

Jerri Dale LeBlanc

August 17, 2005

The thing I will remember most about Sam is no matter what was going on in Sam's life no matter how bad the situation, when ask how things were his words were, I DON'T HAVE A COMPLAINT IN THE WORLD! And he really never had one.

B.J. Barkwell

August 16, 2005

Sam taught me how to meet, greet, and take care of people, to make them feel better than "just a customer". He was full of class & laughs. He taught me alot, and I am greatful. ~CHEERS~ Sam

Patti Knudson Joiner

August 16, 2005

Sam was a special friend. He was a comfort to me during my husband's death and a rock in so many ways. My prayers are with Bonnie, Angela, Jim & Sue, Shane, Sherry and the many many additional family and friends of Sam. He was very special and lived life to the fullest. He touched so many people and will be missed. The only thought I would like to leave for all of us; Sam is only a thought a away and will always be in our hearts. God's Blessings and heartfelt prayers.

Sheila Phillips

August 16, 2005

To dear Bonnie, my sincere condolences. I know how you loved Sam and I am truly sorry for your loss. Wishing you and his family peace and comfort. Love, Sheila (Kissy) Phillips & Family

Bob and Erin Donaho

August 16, 2005

Sam was one of the most genuine men we have had the opportunity to meet, and we have lost a true gentlemen with a warm heart. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family in knowing that his legacy will endure.

Melanie & Joe Stone

August 16, 2005

We really will miss you Sam. Our favorite night out always was coming to your place and enjoying the great food and drink. More enjoyable than the food of course, was your classic humor and wit! You will be missed forever. Our sincerest sympathy to Angela and Bonnie.

Gayla La Grappe

August 16, 2005

The friendships and memories we cherish never really go away. They are with us now wherever we are. I feel privileged to have known Sam Segari for 32 years and his passing leaves a void that can never be filled. Sincere condolences to his family and loved ones.

Sue & Hank Heinbuch

August 16, 2005

We are saddened by Sam's passing. We considered ourselves fortunate to have gained acceptance as newer "regulars" at his restaurant this year and enjoyed getting to know Sam and his family. He was a wonderful character whose memory we will always enjoy.

Vern " Pogo" King

August 16, 2005

Sam was a unique and wonderful friend. We have lost a piece of Houston and a touch of class.

God Bless the family

Courtney Chamberlain Pell

August 15, 2005

Sam was one of the most genuine souls. I grew up around Sam and will never forget him, as he has always held a special place in my heart. Houston has lost one of "The Best". My prayers and thoughts are with all of his family

SAM, JERRI DALE AND RALPH AT PLAY

August 15, 2005

Ray Brown

August 15, 2005

Sam has been a friend since 1970. Not only a god father to my children but a brother and friend to my wife and myself. Our condolences to his wife, daughter, and loyal employee's.

CAROLYN AND MIKE MILBY

August 15, 2005

THE LOSS OF SAM LEAVES A HUGE SPACE THAT ABSOLUTELY NO ONE CAN FILL! HIS FRIENDLY MANNER AND WONDERFUL FOOD WILL BE MISSED BY SO MANY. OUR SINCERE SYMPATHY TO ANGELA AND BONNIE AND SHERRY. MAY GOD FILL YOUR HEARTS WITH HAPPY MEMORIES OF SAM!

RED GRIFFIN

August 15, 2005

SAM WAS A GOOD MAN--THE SAME EVERY DAY AND ALTHOUGH I DIDN'T KNOW HIM WELL I ENJOYED HIS COMPANY. MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO HIS FAMILY.

Carlene Moore

August 15, 2005

Sam, thank you for providing a place where old friends could meet and dine on fine food, laugh, and enjoy a gracious host. I just wish I had taken time to tell you how much I appreciated your advice when my Dad and I went into the real estate business together. You said "pay attention, you will gain from his wisdom and experience". I did. You have a special place in my heart.

Carolyn (Brimberry) Avila

August 15, 2005

There are no words to say how much Sam will be missed. Sam was not related to me but my children grew up calling him Uncle Sam because he was so special to us. We send our love to all of the family and other friends who we join in this time of sorrow. To know Sam Segari was to love him, he was the most real and giving person I have ever known and we will miss him greatly!

Dick Kistner

August 15, 2005

The city of Houston lost one of the most unique men I have ever known. He was one of a kind that can never be replaced. His love of live and people overshadowed everything.

Tom Harrison

August 15, 2005

My thoughts and prayers go out to Sam's family and friends. I met Sam in 1977 at his birthday party at Second Verse and he has been a close friend and confidant since then. After I left Houston in 1987, I could always expect a kind word and smile from Sam whenever I came to town and stopped by to see him. He was a dear friend and will be sorely missed by many. Some people just cannot be replaced and Sam is one of those.

Peggie Pentecost

August 15, 2005

Sam was a Master at Hospitality and visiting his establishment was an "event" and one to remember indeed! I will miss seeing his friendly face. Bonnie and Angela, know that he will live on in the thousands of memories that survive him! I know you will cherish those as will I.

Cass Davies

August 14, 2005

Sam Segari was one of the finest men I ever met. I think that's what God had in mind when he created mankind. It was a privledge to have known him and I was lucky to call him friend. Bonnie, Angela, Shane, Owen how much luckier you are to have him as family and as you know, he told everyone how much he loved each of you. And Sherry - I can't even imagine how hard this is on you. You have been a faithful friend. Thank you for once again taking care of Sam by setting up this guest book. My thoughts and prayers are with you. I now join those hundreds of friends that loved Sam as well. What will we do without him?

Martha Doolin Merrill

August 14, 2005

My deepest condolences to Bonnie, Angela and the rest of the family. Sam was truly one of a kind and will be tremendously missed by all who were lucky enough to call themselves a friend. He leaves a giant hole in my heart, but an incredible smile in my memory. We love you Sammy.

Sherry LeBlanc

August 14, 2005

Sam has been an unforgettable friend to me and my family for over 30 years. I'll miss him more than anyone could ever know. We went through the good and bad times over the years with each other and I wouldn't have missed it for anything. My condolences to Angela, Bonnie, and Shane and all of his many, many friends.

Josie Salazar

August 14, 2005

I will miss you Sam. I will miss the smile you always had, the way with which you made each of us feel, as if we were a very special friend to you. Your gregarious love of life was contagious and fun to experience! You gave us a place to laugh, to congregate, to make friends, meet friends, eat delicious food and drink fine spirits, thank you for all of that! It was so much fun! Be at peace my friend!

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