Salvatore Fuggiasco passed peacefully on Monday, April 6th 2020 just shy of his 94th birthday.
Survived by his wife of 70 years, Patricia Fuggiasco, son Mark (Dee) Fuggiasco, Jeff (Kathy) Fuggiasco, Jane Boyle and son-in-law Edward Land. Preceded in death by daughter Nancy Land. Proud grandfather of Tony Land, Melissa Land Sinkey, Tim (Jessica) Land, Andrew Land, Kelly (Eric) Boyle, and Monica Boyle. Great-Grandfather of Mia Sinkey and Ethan Land.
Salvatore Fuggiasco or “Sam” or “Sam the Piano Man” was truly a force. Sam’s life is one to be celebrated. He survived many hardships, including WWII (awarded a Purple Heart), but you would never know it. His positivity was contagious. He viewed life as a gift and was deeply admired by his family and community. Sam was a very skilled golfer. His happy place was on the course but his passion for golf was only surpassed by his love for music. Sam taught himself how to play piano during the war and made a career as “Sam the Piano Man.” At the age of 21 he began playing in Milwaukee piano bars like Redmill, Rafters, Nino’s, The Friendly Inn and Lacisiro’s. He played back up for Frank Sinatra and Tony Bennet once! In his later years he was a favorite in the surrounding nursing homes and, of course, the star of the Fuggiasco Christmas party. For 72 years he spread joy with music, jokes and stories.
Now he’s our angel in heaven and even in death he will bring love and laughter as we won’t think of him without a smile. May Nancy be there to welcome him to the most beautiful golf course he’s ever seen.
Hear his story about WWII:
https://memory.loc.gov/diglib/vhp/story/loc.natlib.afc2001001.86468/