Born Dec. 8, 1948 in Zahleh, Lebanon, he was the son of the late Jamil and Adelle Samaha.
He studied at the University of Moscow, earning a master's degree in international law.
Joseph and Denise were married on Sept 1, 1984 at St. Ann's Melkite Catholic Church in Waterford.
Mr. Samaha was an entrepreneur, with business ventures first as a restaraunteur and most recently, he and his wife are owners and operators of the Route 85 Sunoco station in Colchester.
In addition to his beloved wife, survivors include three children, Michael, Adelle and Gabriel, all at home; eight siblings; and numerous extended family members and friends, all of whom will remember him for his integrity, courage, strength of will and willingness to take chances while living life to the fullest.
Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at St. Mary's Ukrainian Catholic Church, 178 Linwood Avenue, Colchester. Gathering at Aurora-McCarthy Funeral Home on Saturday at 9 a.m. will be followed by the Funeral Service of Divine Liturgy at 10 a.m. at St. Mary's Ukrainian Catholic Church, 178 Linwood Avenue, Colchester. Burial will follow in New Lebanon Cemetery.
Donations in his memory may be made to "St. Ann's Building Fund", 41 Cross Road, Waterford, CT 06385.
Please visit www.auroramccarthyfuneralhome.com to submit online condolences.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Susan Kupper
January 28, 2008
My grandson Joshua Towne and I would like to express our condolences. Joe will be missed by many.
Joe and Kristina Stevens
January 26, 2008
We learned of Joe's passing this afternoon and wanted to express our condolences.
Unfortunately, we didn't have the opportunity to know Joe or Denise outside the garage, but it doesn't take more than a brief conversation to recognize the kind of person he was. To describe Joe as honest, sincere, and a man of integrity would only begin to scratch the surface. Joe was the type of guy who quickly made you feel like you were old friends. I will miss our discussions of family and business. But mostly I will miss Joe's ready smile, his willingness to laugh and his wonderful spirit. Denise you were lucky to have Joe in your life and he equally as fortunate to have you. You were both wonderful together. Our sympathies and thoughts are with you.
Allyson Holman
January 26, 2008
Denise, and family,
I am so very sorry for your loss. I'll remember Joe mostly for his kindness and honesty, but also his integrity as a businessman, and very likely the most respected member of our community.
faouzi&katia hage
January 25, 2008
sorry for your loss.may god bless and mercy be on you and your family.we praying for you.
The Garrity's
January 24, 2008
We are very sorry to hear about your loss. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family in a time of need. Joe will be missed tremendously. He was a great guy.
GEORGE HAJJ
January 24, 2008
Sorry for your loss!may his memory
be eternal.
~with Deepest sympathy
George&lina hajj
Gabe Hajj
January 24, 2008
Sorry for your loss ! He will live on in the hearts of everyone who loved him.
Gabe & Joumana Hajj
Anna and Ray Sobanski
January 23, 2008
May his memory be eternal. We know he is now in a place where there is no pain, no grief, no more suffering. We are praying for you all and hope that your memories sustain you through difficult times.
john hage
January 23, 2008
We are sorry to hear of the loss of your loved one. We pray that God will strengthen you with His love and encourage you during this difficult time.
~With Deepest Sympathy,
John Hage and Family
Mr.& Mrs. Jack Hage and family
January 23, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Sandy and Jesse Griggs
January 23, 2008
Denise, Michael, Adelle and Gabriel,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
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