Tripodi, Samuel F., 87, of Ithaca, NY, passed away August 27, 2016. Born to Anthony and Maria Tripodi, he is predeceased by his parents, his brothers, Franceso and Dominick Tripodi; his sister, Connie (Bob) O'Neil, and his wife, Leora (Swayze) Tripodi. Sam is survived by his daughter, Diane Tripodi; his son, David Tripodi; his daughter-in-law, Laurie Robinson, and several nieces and nephews.
Sam was an extremely hard worker his whole life having his first job at the age of 11 selling newspapers. He then worked at Ocello's Shoes as a cobbler which allowed him to pay for his pilot's license while still in high school. Sam had a life-long passion for aviation and would often recall stories of flying out of what is now the Hangar Theatre. Sam was in the Navy on the USS Pocono during the Korean Conflict. Upon return to Ithaca, he worked at NYSEG for over 35 years where he continued to demonstrate a strong work ethic.
Sam was a gifted craftsman having built his own house and many beautiful furniture pieces. He loved photography, music and traveling. Sam was a long-time member of the Elks Lodge #636. He was the Exalted Ruler four times in 1986, 1987, 1988, and 2004. In 1993, he was the District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler. Sam was also a member of the Lansing Lions and Knights of Columbus. Sam worked on many charitable projects particularly for the Immaculate Conception School and Church where he was an usher for decades.
Sam was a loving father and will be missed. His family would like to extend their appreciation to Dr. Kuntz and the Guthrie Medical Staff, as well as the Staff at Longview for their excellent care.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday, September 1, 2016 at 10am at the Immaculate Conception Church. Friends may call Wednesday, August 31, 2016 from 4-6 pm at the Bangs Funeral Home where members of Elks Lodge #636 will conduct services at 5:45 pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Immaculate Conception School, 113 N Geneva Street, Ithaca, NY14850, in Sam's memory.
Visitation Wednesday, August 31, 2016 from 4 to 6 pm at Bangs Funeral Home with Elks Ritual to be held at 5:45 pm.
SERVICES Funeral Service
Thursday, September 01, 2016 10:00 AM
Immaculate Conception Church 113 N. Geneva St. Ithaca, NY 14850
Visitation Wednesday, August 31, 2016 from 4 to 6 pm at Bangs Funeral Home with Elks Ritual to be held at 5:45 pm.
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