Sam Joseph Hakim Sr.

Sam Joseph Hakim, Sr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and cherished St. Clair Shores Lebanese deli owner, passed away peacefully Friday, November 21, at Henry Ford St. John Hospital. He was 70.

Affectionately known as "Big Sam" or "Papa Sam," he was a man whose generosity and larger-than-life presence touched anyone who crossed his path. Everyone knew him as the owner of Emily's Delicatessen "Home of the Meat Pie," and his influence stretched far beyond Michigan's state lines. No matter where he traveled, someone passing by would proudly recognize him as "Sam from Emily's." The encounters always brought a smile to his face and a story he couldn't wait to share when he returned home.

Through the store, which he ran alongside his mother, Emily, Sam became a community pillar and local legend. He dedicated his life to serving others with hospitality and the signature smile that friends and customers came to love. And to many, he was far more than the owner of Emily's-he was a mentor, a father figure, and a friend, and his impact on the lives of others was truly profound and enduring.

Most enduring was his devotion to his family. He absolutely adored his late wife, Mary Jane, and cherished her beyond words. And through great sacrifice and an unmatched work ethic, he ensured all five sons received strong educations at Catholic schools and later in college. Nothing made him prouder than his sons' achievements or when Sam Jr. started working at the store with him. Sam's commitment to his family remains one of his greatest legacies.

Sam Joseph Hakim, Sr. will forever be remembered for his generosity, his laughter, his smile, his unshakeable work ethic, and his love for family.

Sam was predeceased by his loving wife, Mary Jane; his parents Joseph and Emily Hakim, his brother Maroun (Lidwina), and his sister Emma (Paul) Bochenek. He is survived by his brother Roy (Tammy) and by his sisters, Mary "Tootsie" (Allan) Brazier and Joann (Michael) Carpenter; his sons Joseph, Matthew, Anthony "A.J." (Courtney), Sam Jr. (Michelle) and Christopher (Teresa); nine grandchildren and 18 nieces and nephews.

Visitation is Sunday, November 30, 1-8pm, with a rosary at 2pm, at Wasik Funeral Home,

49150 Schoenherr Rd., Shelby Township. Funeral Mass will be Monday, December 1, at 11am (instate at 10am) at St. Sharbel Maronite Church, 43888 Hayes Rd., Clinton Township. Interment at Resurrection Cemetery, Clinton Township.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Sharbel Maronite Church.

During the road construction on Schoenherr Rd. the north Schoenherr driveway for the funeral home will remain open and for your convenience there is access to the funeral home parking lot through the parking lot of Macomb Christian Church 13845 22 Mile Road (e. of Schoenherr Rd.), Shelby Twp.