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Joseph Somma Obituary
1931 - 2024
Joseph John Somma, 93, a longtime resident of Stamford, passed away Tuesday, December 17, 2024. He grew up in White Plains, NY, and graduated from Ohio Wesleyan before serving in the Army from 1954-56. After meeting his wife Joan Cuzzi in Westchester, they settled in Stamford and made a home for nearly 58 years. He worked as a salesman for St. Regis Paper and later Champion International. He was passionate about many things-his faith, his friends and foremost his family. He loved every minute spent watching his kids and later grandkids in their various activities.
He believed in community and for years Joe was an active member of the St Gabriel's parish as a choir member and volunteer with the men's club. He held the office of Grand Knight in the local Knights of Columbus, was President of the Kiwanis Club, and was a dedicated member of both the American Legion and the Rotary Club. He fought for the underdog, whether it was valiantly attempting to keep Rippowam High School from closing or passing out books to disadvantaged youth. He was recognized for his charitable work in 2013 by the Diocese of Bridgeport with the prestigious St Augustine Medal.
Sports played a major role in his busy life, whether he was playing tennis with his wife or golf with his buddies. Following his favorite teams, especially his beloved Yankees, was a source of great joy and occasional frustration. He also always made time to pinch hit as a volunteer judge for his sons' diving meets.
He was an impassioned ballroom dancer who cut a mean rug with his wife Joan. He had a penchant for plaid pants and white bucks and loved to sing. One of his favorites was Sondheim's "Send in the Clowns".
Mr. Somma was the cherished husband of the late Joan Somma (2018) and is survived by daughters Virginia Somma Guido (Paul), Cynthia Lawn (Christopher) and sons Lawrence (Elizabeth) and Joseph Jr. (Kristen). "Grampy" leaves behind eight beautiful grandchildren: Christian, Avery, Bridget, Kendall, Clark, Ryan, Pilar and Jake and a sister Marilyn Seymour (Michael).
A viewing will be held from 8-9:30 a.m. on Saturday December 28 at Leo P. Gallagher Funeral Home followed by a 10:30 Mass at St Aloysius in New Canaan.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Mr. Somma's name to The Knights of Columbus Council 2287.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Somma
Sponsored by Leo P. Gallagher & Son Funeral Home - Stamford.
Jodi
January 10, 2025
Ginny and family. So sorry for your loss. I always remember your dad with a smile on his face. Deepest sympathies, Jodi Amato
Gerard Gasparino
December 27, 2024
To the Somma Family,
My sincere condolences for your loss. Joe was a great man and I am very fortunate to have known him. He was genuine and caring to all. We will all miss his smile and good heartedness along with his great singing voice. Kiwanis meetings have not been the same without his rendition of God Bless America! Rest in peace.
Gerard
Arlene Joan Connor
December 26, 2024
Many memories from St. Gabriel parish events. May he rest in peace.
Geoff Tatton
December 22, 2024
To Ginny, Larry, Cindy, & Joe,
We send our deepest sympathies to you and your families. We have many fond memories of your parents at both AEI and St. Gabriel´s church choir. Your parents were always great to be around.
Fondly,
Geoff &. Margaret Tatton
Alba Crespo
December 21, 2024
My sincere condolences to the Somma Family. May the Lord give you peace and strength throughout this difficult time .. RIP dear Joe. You were loved by everyone who knew you!
joseph denicola
December 21, 2024
To Joe's family he ,Joe Denicolawill be greatly missed by all. God Bless him may he rest in peace , his good buddy. Joe Denicola
Bertha Barosky
December 20, 2024
Sincere sympathy to Mr. Somma's survivors. He and Joan were very active and productive in our Columbiette events at St. Cecilia Church several years ago. Pleasant memories prevail. May he rest in peace.
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Memorial Events
for Joseph Somma
Dec
28
Viewing
8:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Leo P. Gallagher & Son Funeral Home - Stamford2900 Summer Street, Stamford, CT 06905-4304
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Leo P. Gallagher & Son Funeral Home - Stamford2900 Summer Street, Stamford, CT 06905-4304
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