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Samuel Szor Obituary
Samuel
Samuel Szor, 84, Toledo's "Mister Music", passed away on Friday, October 24, 2014, after a lengthy illness. An educator, conductor, and musical icon, Sam's contributions to Toledo's cultural heritage spanned 7 decades.
Born in Toledo's Birmingham neighborhood on May 22, 1930, Sam was a stand-out music student at Waite High School. With the encouragement of Waite Band director Cecile Vashaw, he enrolled at the University of Michigan where he was a member of the famed U of M band, serving as librarian for director Dr. William D. Revelli and earning two degrees there.
It was at Woodward High School in 1953 where Sam began his teaching career. Known for his energy and creativity he inspired band students, school and community with innovative half-time shows, challenging concert programs, and ,of course, the spectacular "Extravagana" musicals.
At about the same time, the outdoor summer concert series, "Music Under the Stars", was undertaken by Sam at the Toledo Zoo Amphitheater. These popular concerts were loved by thousands of concert-goers over the 60 years he was at the helm. Capturing the essence of what crowds wanted to hear, that genius in programming combined with the best elements of showmanship enabled Sam to thrill Toledoans with quality entertainment for all those 60 years!
An accomplished instrumentalist, Sam played bassoon in the Toledo Symphony Orchestra for conductors Joseph Hawthorne and Serge Fournier. He himself led the TSO for almost 10 years in the Casual Concerts, programs of pops and light classics at the Stranahan Theater.
He served as conductor of the Perrysburg Symphony Orchestra for 20 years, the First Congregational Church motet choir for 37 years, and the Toledo Choral Society for 53 years presenting Handel's "Messiah" every December in the Toledo Museum of Art Peristyle.
In the 60's Sam taught music at the University of Toledo and finished his teaching at Waite High School in the 70's and 80's.
With his charismatic presence and good humor Sam enjoyed wide popularity here in his beloved Toledo. He will be missed.
Surviving are his wife, Judy; sons, Tom Szor and Terry Szor; daughters, Megan (Paul) Hickey and Martha (Georg) Kreutzer; grandchildren, Patrick, Emily, Caitlin, Kelsey and Madison Hickey, Lukas Kreutzer, Olivia and Francesca Szor, and sisters, Joyce and Joann He was predeceased by sister, Elizabeth Spottswood.
Family and friends are invited to visit from 2-8 p.m. Monday in the Walker Funeral Home, 5155 Sylvania Ave. (west of Corey Rd.). Memorial services will be held at 1 p.m., Tuesday, October 28, 2014, at Epworth United Methodist Church, 4855 W. Central Ave., Toledo. Interment will be private.
Memorials are suggested to Hospice of Northwest Ohio, the Toledo Symphony or the Toledo Choral Society.
Online condolences can be expressed at
walkerfuneralhomes.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Samuel Szor
Paul Magnan
July 25, 2024
I had the privilege of singing at one of the Music under the Stars event, with Sam conducting the Toledo Symphony Orchestra. He was a great guy, mentor and was always encouraging.
David Guldin
October 19, 2020
I have many great memories of Sam. I especially liked his commanding choral and orchestral direction. I am always grateful for the joint venture between Sam and the Toledo Choral Society and The Adrian Symphony for Carl Orff's CARMINA BURANA in the early 80's. I was so enthusiastic that I joined TCS and am a member still today. Thanks Sam for "the memories".
November 6, 2019
Sam was a superb contributor to the arts of music in Toledo and the music world. He left a wonderful legacy. I was honored ot know him.And to experience his friendship and talent. Jamie Farr
Christina Castellucio-Jones
November 5, 2019
My Heart goes out to the entire family. Tom Szor was my music teacher at Whittier and he was the reason why I grew up loving classical music so much. His love for music clearly came From His dad Sam. I remember going to Music under the Stars watching the father son duo always admiring both of them. May you all find comfort and peace during this very difficult time.
Charlene Pandi
October 26, 2019
You were my violin teacher at Riverside School. Then I came to find out you were friends with my brothers. We had a lot of good talks together and I enjoyed every moment of it. I will truly miss them
Johnny Gibson
November 28, 2017
Hello my name is Johnny Gibson I was a student and in the Woodward High school band when Sammy Szor was conductor and I was a drummer in the band. I along with three of my classmates performed as a vocal group in those incredible extravaganzas from 1955-56-57. After graduating I went on to very successful in my musical career and had several hit records in the 60's and 70's "Midnight" being the biggest. I am currently performing in Nuuk Greenland I say all of this because there was and will always be a very warm place in my heart for Mr. Sammy Szor who had a huge influence on me. Oh Sammy I did continue to study and I have a B A in music from UCLA. THANK YOU SO MUST AND REST IN PEACE.
Johnny Gibson
DOUG BROWN
July 9, 2015
Judy, Tom and family, Albeit very delayed, you all have my deepest sympathy in your loss of this legendary man. God bless you.
November 20, 2014
I first met Sam as a freshman in the Waite HS band the fall of 1947. He was a tremendous leader and drum major for Ms. Cecile Vashaw our band director. I remember Sam took personal interest in all of us lowly freshman and especially our big trip to El Paso, TX where the Waite Indians football team were scheduled to Austin HS...yes we won. Sam rescued me from the upperclass boys and their tricks. Sam and I became friends from the trip and the many music associations we had in the coming years. I became the band director at Libbey HS in 1962 when Sam was at Woodward HS and T.U. I studied bassoon with him at T.U. He was a dedicated teacher and touch so many lives in his teaching career. We renewed our friendship at the Waite HS reunions...he recognized me instantly as a fellow magyar from east Toledo. Sam, RIP and I will always treasure our friendship.
Martin Douglas Pachey, Moneta, VA
Lydia (Scaffidi) Morris
November 4, 2014
To the Szor family. So sorry to hear of Sam's passing belatedly. I hope it it a comfort to you all, to know what a great musical legacy he has left in this town, and all the people whos' lives he has touched.
Perry and Sandy Gardner
November 2, 2014
Judy and Family,
We extend our deepest sympathy to you. We too loved going to Music Under the Stars. God's blessing to you.
Mary Keen
November 1, 2014
My condolences to
My condolences to Sam's family. My mother was his mother's best friend. We lived in Birmingham neighborhood in Toledo. Sam conducted our church's choir one summer while off from U. of M. He was fantastic and taught us how to sing. My husband an children went to many of his Music Under the Stars programs. Sam was always very unassuming and gave credit to his band. He will be truly missed.
Stephanie Young
October 31, 2014
Cranked up 1812 Overture on my car's CD player. No Lions roaring, no stars overhead or no fireworks; But it was my salute to Mr. Szor. Fellow East Toledoan and Waite Grad. My mother Alma (Dupuis)Young knew Mr. Szor and she and Dad took us kids to Music under the Stars..
victoria (mckee)mcgowan
October 30, 2014
my mother Juanita foreman and I have so many wonderful memories of sam. I know he will be sorely missed. my deepest sympathy to the family.
Ida Vargo-Kobs
October 30, 2014
Memories-memories. Great pie and practice at your house...all the group at the park....singing at different churches. What great fun we had. Give a hug to my brother Bob Vargo and your sister Erszi. Condolences to the family. You will be missed. Istenhossid -- for now.
October 29, 2014
Wonderful man memories from the concerts at the zoo when I was little I remember always pulling on his pant leg just to say "hi". He will be sadly missed by many.
BOB ARVAY
October 28, 2014
A true & loyal friend ,always available. A proud MAGYAR. Brought pride to the Woodward band.
Barry Cox
October 28, 2014
My condolences to Judy and Tom.
betty hughes
October 28, 2014
Judy and family, My prayrs are with you all at this sad time in your lives. Good memories are of him from being a band dirctor at Waite High School.My three children were in the band years a go. His music and he will be missed for you all and us his friends that knew him forever. JESUS took him out of his suffering and pain and he is at rest now. Prayers for you and your wonderful family. Betty Hughes
We are praying for you. With Love, Your friends at Calvin United Church of Christ, Toledo
Rev. Mary J. Wood
October 28, 2014
Sandy Kinner Fink
October 28, 2014
So many wonderful memories of such a wonderful man and teacher. Woodward Band and Extravaganza, UT Band and Choral
Group always unique.He inspired so many and gave so much love. His light will continue to shine always. Prayers to the family as you mourn this loss. Sam will be in our hearts always.
David Guldin
October 28, 2014
Ann and I extend our deepest sympathy to Judy and family and are keeping all in our prayers.
Janet King
October 28, 2014
Always admired this talented musician. My mother and I attended several of his "Music Under The Stars" performances at the Zoo. He, indeed, was one of Toledo's best assets. Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
October 27, 2014
Judy and Family,
Tina and I extend our deepest sympathies for your loss - indeed a great loss for so many of us. Sam's lifelong friendship with my Dad was so special. We appreciate the time that you and Sam had with Mom and Dad. The New Year's Eve celebrations in Harbor Springs will long be remembered.
The West family will greatly miss Sam, but we are so grateful for the richness he contributed to all of our lives.
Love,
Brent
Nancy Niemiec-Sobecki
October 27, 2014
Judy and Family, I am so sorry for your loss of Sam. He was a wonderful musical talent and gifted teacher as you are Judy. My prayers and thoughts are with you at this very difficult time.
October 27, 2014
Will miss your music you will remain a pillar to the community
Dennis Chelminski
October 27, 2014
Sam came to Hamilton grade school, while he was Band Director at Woodward, during the 60's to teach Band where I got interested in the trumpet. Went on to play for 30 years. A great guy.
Betty Thomson
October 27, 2014
My thoughts and prayers are with each of you. Sam went to Waite when I did and he made the Band terrific!! He always was well liked and he made Toledo Great. He will be missed by a lot of friends.
Robin "Studyvin" Rokosky
October 27, 2014
Sam's Legacy will live on through his wife Judy and the talents of his children. He lives on through the lives he touched which seems endless. He was my school Dad, friend, teacher and so much more. He taught us to always be kind, to laugh, respect one another and to always give our best. I will never forget when he checked to make sure the girls in High school were not wearing too much make-up. If so, he would tell them! He never held back from making sure things were done right and properly. Foot prints in the sand soon will wash away. But memories of YOU SAM, forever will they stay. RIP Sam! Much Love and prayers to the family.
JoAnn "Sparky" Sparks Anderson
October 27, 2014
Mr. Szor this candle will burn forever as will the knowledge and love for music I have all because you as my band director of the Great Waite High Marching Band lit a candle inside when I was young. I will never be able to thank you enuogh or let you know how much those kind simple words meant to me then. R.I.P. and until we meet again my friend. I will always and forever be your Sparky. Thanks for believing in me.
JoAnn "Sparky" Sprarks Anderson
October 27, 2014
Mr. Szor touched and changed so many lives with the most simple words. He is going to be missed greatly by so many. This former student here is going to miss him more than any words can express. My condolences to all of you during this most difficult times. Thoughts and prayers for all.
Much LOVE
Karen White-Steinmetz
October 27, 2014
There aren't enough words to describe what a WONDERFUL, TALENTED man Mr. Szor was. He will be sadly missed! I am so grateful to have witnessed this first hand while attending Waite HS. He taught me a lot about music and I still think of him often & whenever I go to the Toledo Zoo. My Thoughts & Prayers to his family at this sad time. He will be greatly missed by all!! God Bless!
Jodi Slaughterbeck
October 27, 2014
What can one say about a man who is a Toledo legend? I was lucky enough to have Sam as my Instructor for some time at the great Waite High School. The crazy half time shows, they were infamous at the time. The music we played we really related to. He knew how to teach and make it fun to learn. After high school I would see him down at Portside (where I was working) and he always made time to grab a quick lunch together. Sam Szor was a huge influence on who I am today. I have to say a piece of my heart is now missing since we have lost Sam. My sincere condolences go to his entire family. Sending lots of love and hugs!!! ??????
Tuffy Reason
October 26, 2014
Back in the late 90's, walking east along West Bancroft Street and heading for a "Buckwheat Zydeco" free concert at the Doermann Theat at the University of Toledo, I recognized the gait and walking figure ahead of me along the north side of the street. I hastened my pace, caught up with Sam, introduced myself and we enjoyed a fifteen minute conversation. We knew so many of the same people, instant karma. I admired the way Sam continued along and promoted music through he years. His younger sister Liz was a friend at the University of Toledo. I had met Tom when he did student teaching in music at Clay High School. God bless Sam!
October 26, 2014
Sending our deepest sympathies to the Szor family. There is no doubt that Sam is up directing the heavenly symphony. He was a great man.
Gene & Kris (Kinsey) West
Russ Kinner
October 26, 2014
A better ambassador for Toledo has never been born. I had the pleasure of playing in one All City Concert Band while I attend Rogers H.S. Many years later at a Symphony concert he and I happened by each other and he recognized me - probably 20 years between. We are all in his debt.
Teresa Stockman
October 26, 2014
I am so sorry for the loss of a great man. I have many great memories of brothers in the band and of myself in the choir while at Waite. Sam made it some of the best years of our lives. We send our prayers and comfort at this time of sorrow to the entire Szor family. Teresa Stockman, Jeff Stockman and David Stockman
October 26, 2014
What a loss. Sam was an institution in Toledo and music. I remember Sam vividly and his magic. I left Toledo in 1952 after graduation and returned years later to host our LPGA tournament and it was alway a pleasure to be in his company and to attend any of his musical events. He shall be missed. Sympathy to his family. Jamie Farr
Luann Kurfis
October 26, 2014
SAm was my favorite teacher during my years at Waite(Class of 79) He made learning music fun and there was never a dull moment in 3rd hour band class. He was truly an inspiration and he will be greatly missed!!! Prayers going up for his family !!
Helen & John Merillat
October 26, 2014
Judy, accept our sympathy in the death of Sam. We always laughed a lot when he was at parties. We too loved music under the stars. Now he gets to sing, play and direct in heaven. Prayers, thoughts and blessings to you.
Csaba Orosz
October 26, 2014
Judy and family, I am sorry to hear of Sam's passing. He was a great man and a great Hungarian. I am sure he is conducting God's orchestra in heaven as I write this. My prayers are with you and your family, may he rest in peace. God Bless. Csaba and family.
Thor Bohland
October 26, 2014
My condolences to the Szor Family. Mr. Szor was an awesome teacher, a wonderful person and touched the lives of many. He will be missed by countless people in our community. Morrison R. Waite H.S. 1983
Carol (Bollin) Hill
October 26, 2014
As a former member of The Choral Society and "Mini Chorus" in the late 1960's, I was always inspired by Sam's enthusiasm and love of music. It was truly an honor to know him and be a member of the chorus. His legacy will live for a long time.
Thoughts and prayers for the family.
Shelly Eller
October 25, 2014
Mr. Szor was one of my favorite teachers. He was so talented and so full of life. He had a gift for making you laugh while you learned. A truly joyous and uplifting man.
My sincere condolences,
Shelly (Pimienta) Eller
Waite class of '84.
Cathy Schultz
October 25, 2014
Cathy (Yancy)Schultz Woodward HS 1962 - Mr. Szor made us so proud of our band and our Extravaganzas were the best. He always walked down the halls with a smile. He will be sorely missed in Toledo. Deepest sympathies to the family.
Erin Fine
October 25, 2014
For years Sam made "Music Under the Stars" for all of us to enjoy.
Now he will be making "Music Above the Stars",for everyone in heaven to enjoy. Thanks for all the memories.
Dan Henige
October 25, 2014
Joann and Joyce,
My best wishes in this time of grief.
Evelyn Powers
October 25, 2014
What a fabulous, gifted, tremendous man this was! I grew up idolizing this man as a young musician from Temperance, Michigan, and, had the sheer honor of meeting him and following his career until I left for college.
My deepest sympathy, not just to his family and friends, but, to all of Toledo! This man was an icon!
He will be sorely missed.
Rest in peace and God speed, Mr. Szor.
You were THE BEST!
With sympathy,
Evelyn Powers,
Bloomington, Indiana
October 25, 2014
so sorry to of sams death we were neighbors on the east side when we were kids we lived across the ally an sam came over often to visit and play our paino i know toledo will miss him god bless your family anthony mattoni and family
Dan Welch
October 25, 2014
Sam Szor was my mentor and friend. When ever our paths would cross and no matter how bad a day I was having, he would always light up my world with his infectious smile and charasmatic personality. A true toledo icon, he will be sadly missed. But, the memories will last forever...
Toledo University '69
Kelly Spears
October 25, 2014
My heart goes out to Sam's family at this time of loss. He was such a great man. Waite High School was so lucky to have him all those years, as well as, other associations. Truly a legend in his own time. He will be missed by thousands of people. RIP Sam, we love you.
Jay and Sue Koester
October 25, 2014
Judy and family, we were so saddened to learn of Sam's passing. He had such an impact on both of our lives, and we always admired his wonderful spirit and enthusiasm for music. Our prayers are with you as you mourn his loss.
Sincerely,
Jennifer (Huff) Bush
October 25, 2014
I will always have such wonderful memories of Mr. Szor. He instilled a deep love of music that can be surpassed by no one. May the good Lord now enjoy the music of this maestro. Rest in peace you dear man.
Sharon Sitek-Dendinger
October 25, 2014
Dear Judy, we are sad to learn of Sam's passing. Fond memories of days gone by when I sang with Choral Society are still fresh in my mind. Sam was always the one to tell a humorous story. We made great music and had some good laughs as well. You and Sam were so good to my father when he was home with a difficult wound that would not heal. Thank you for that. We send you love and prayers as you go through this very difficult time. Sam will be missed by many, many people who had the pleasure of knowing him and working with him.
Dennie & Mary Wittman
October 25, 2014
Our deepest and most sincere sympathies for the loss of someone so dear and special. We cannot begin to express our appreciation for such a wonderful and accomplished man. He will be missed, but countless memories will stay with all privileged to have known Sam and he will always remain with a smile in our hearts. Our sympathy and love to you Judy, and the Szor family.
October 25, 2014
Woodward High School; class of '62. Pure joy and happiness when Sam Szor was leading our HS Band. He made our Band one of the best and we all loved him. sincere sympathies to his family and friends. Sue (Matzinger) King
Rev. Thomas Extejt
October 25, 2014
Sam brought the Toledo Choral Society to St. Charles on Airport Highway to present Mozart's "Coronation Mass." It was a delight to get to know Sam, and the concert made for a magnificent Sunday afternoon.
Richard Kozbial
October 25, 2014
My thoughts and prayers go out to Sam Szor's family at this sad time. I recall singing and soloing in the Choral Society and Music Under the Stars. He was a legend in the musical community of Toledo and his presence will be greatly missed.
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