Samuel A. "Sam" Armato

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.