Sam (Salvatore) Barbetta
elevated MZ03n July 2, 1935 – September 21, 2023
elevated MZ03n Funeral Mass
Saturday September 30, 2023 at 12:00 pm
elevated MZ03n Chapel of St. Joseph- Holy Cross Catholic Funeral Home
211 Langstaff Road East, Thornhill, ON, L3T 3Z6
elevated MZ03n View Funeral Mass
elevated MZ03n Interment
Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery – Section 21
elevated MZ03n Obituary
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Sam (Salvatore) Barbetta, who peacefully departed from this world on September 21, 2023. Surrounded by the love of his daughter, Linda Barbetta, and his niece, Judy Stock, Sam found solace at Hill House Hospice during his final moments. It is a poignant coincidence that Sam left us on the very day that would have marked his 60th wedding anniversary to his beloved Paula “terrific” (MacNeil).
elevated MZ03n Sam was predeceased by his dear wife Paula, on October 22, 2022, and his cherished daughter, Jennifer Barbetta, who left us on October 28, 1993.
elevated MZ03n Sam was a captivating storyteller, known for his ability to weave intriguing narratives, share fun facts, and deliver jokes with impeccable timing. His profound knowledge spanned a multitude of subjects, often enriched by his knack for unearthing obscure historical facts. His wit and quick comebacks, a legacy from growing up in a large family, served him well throughout his life. As the seventh of eight siblings, Sam bore his family name with immense pride, just as his brothers and sisters did.
elevated MZ03n From a young age, Sam cultivated a love for the outdoors, venturing through the woods with his trusty Daisy Red Ryder BB Gun. This early passion for firearms and hunting would shape his lifelong pursuits. Sam dedicated his career to forensic science, specializing as a firearms and tool marking expert. His integrity was his hallmark, and he testified in over 69 courtrooms across the province.
elevated MZ03n At 19, Sam discovered his love for Skeet Shooting and became a cherished member of the Scarborough Rod & Gun Club, now known as the Uxbridge Gun Club. Throughout his life, he excelled as a shooter, earning accolades in shooting competitions across the province. His dedication to the sport extended beyond personal achievement. Sam was passionate about mentoring new shooters, forming enduring friendships, and imparting his wisdom. Nothing delighted him more than witnessing fellow shooters achieve their first 25, 50, or even 100 straight hits.
elevated MZ03n Sam leaves behind a legacy cherished by his daughter, Linda Barbetta (Geordie Walker), and his two beloved grandchildren, Jennifer Walker, and Brenden Walker. His pride in them was boundless, and their presence brought him unparalleled joy.
elevated MZ03n Sam is reunited with his siblings, Tony, John, Nick, Mary, Dora, Frank, and Mike, who predeceased him in death. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews, as well as a host of friends whose lives he touched deeply.
elevated MZ03n The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Judy and Brian Stock for their unwavering love, compassion, and unwavering support over the past two years.
elevated MZ03n In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Hill House Hospice in Richmond Hill, where Sam found comfort and care during his final journey.
elevated MZ03n Sam’s memory will forever live on in our hearts, his stories, and the countless lives he touched. May he rest in eternal peace.
elevated MZ03n
Such a beautiful tribute to an amazing man and Uncle. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Xoxox
Sam has left us all with many treasured memories . He shared many well told life stories. His great wit and laughter as well as his deep love of family are his most memorable qualities. He will be so missed by us all.
Linda and Geordie.
Our sincere condolences to you and your family at this very sad time. Love and prayers always, Tanya and Kevin O’Brien
What a beautiful sentiment to your Dad Linda . So interesting to read about his life . His bless you all
Wonderful man! Congrats on a life well-live Sam! Gerry.
Such a kind man. The Barbetta’s were fantastic neighbours on the best street I could ever wish to grow up on. Sending heartfelt condolences to Linda, Geordie, Jennifer and Brenden, as well as, all his family and friends. Rest in peace Mr. Barbetta with Paula and Jenny.
Dearest Linda…love to you and your family at this difficult time. May you find joy in the memories you shared. Xoxo
A great man that we will all miss dearly.
Sam was a good friend for over 30 years. wonderful story teller with a terrific sense of humour.
I will miss you my friend, I will always have a place for you on my squad.
Sam was a great neighbour for 36 years. He will definitely be missed.
I met Sam 33 years ago when I was a trap boy at the gun club. He was a very kind man and a dear friend of my fathers. Condolences from our family
Dear Linda and Family,
Sam was truly one of the kindest human beings I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. He always came into our business with a smile and I loved listening to his many stories. I know he has touched the lives of everyone in our family, especially my father Tony Peck.
Sam was a remarkable man and will be greatly missed by so many people. Sending love to you all during this very difficult time.
Sam will be dearly missed by all the members of the Uxbridge Clays club. He was a friend and mentor to all, especially to the newest members, whom he always made a point to welcome to the club.
Uncle Sam’s charismatic smile, sparkly eyes, and gentle way will always be
my core memory of him. RIP dear Uncle Sam. Linda and family, holding you in my thoughts and sending love.
Dear Linda and family.
Sam was a very special friend and mentor. We shared many stories and anecdotes together.
I will miss his great smile and strong handshake.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this sad time.
Sincerely,
Barb and Tony Peck
What a beautiful tribute. Sending condolences and love to family and friends.
Our deepest condolences to the family. Our prayers and thoughts are with all of you during this sad time.
I remember Sam well from the late 50’s and 60’s when we would meet with friends downtown. He was a wonderful man and friend. Sincere condolences to his daughter Linda and family.
Sam listened with his eyes, ears and heart . Being in his presence was such a gift. Thank you Linda for taking such wonderful care of your father, especially during this past year . Stephen and Cathy’s mother , Carol von Zuben .
Uncle Sam was an amazing story-teller and I’ll always remember him keeping a whole room spellbound with his accounts of The Old West, trappers, outlaws and legends… typically wrapping up with everyone bursting out laughing as Sam wove in his wry and hilarious summation.
Deepest condolences from Barb and I
From the time that I first met your family back in Grade 7 you could see this was a home filled with love and warmth. Your parents were like second parents to me. It has been a honour to know them.
Nothing but wonderful memories.
What an absolutely magnificent honouring of your dad’s life. We are sending you all big hugs, lots of love.
So very sad to hear of Sam’s passing. Truly an exceptional person and a real Gentleman and role model. I knew him professionally when he was with the CFS and I was a Toronto Police Officer and also as a fellow clay target shooter. He was always so nice to my brother David and I. A real loss of a great man. My condolences to his family and so many people who considered him a special friend. Rest In Peace Brother.
We have so many wonderful memories of our dear Uncle Sam. He was so close to his brother Frank, our own Dad. His storytelling and wonderful wit and sense of humour will be greatly missed. A wonderful Uncle to so many of us.
I had the pleasure to meet Sam only a few times. Each time I can remember his quick remarks of knowledge and comedy. RIP
Hello Pat – sorry for the slow response – thank you for you words about dad –
Not sure if you will get this . I have been going through old pictures and found some nice ones of your dad. I could send them to you if your interested