Samuel Steven Mazzola

Sam Mazzola has always been larger than life and after 97 yrs. of a life well-lived, Sam passed peacefully on June 12th 2021. Samuel Steven Mazzola was born February 2nd, 1924 in Akron, Ohio to parents Sarah and Joseph Mazzola of Palermo, Sicily. ‘Sam’, as we lovingly called him, was one of nine children and a first-generation American.

Sam started Mazzola Mold & Dye in Kent. He and his family would later open and operate the Alliance Motor Inn and Sam & Son’s Restaurant in Alliance, OH. Sam retired from the Portage County Juvenile Center.

In 1941 and at just 17 yrs. old Sam dutifully enlisted with the United States Navy and served honorably in the South Pacific campaign during WWII, being awarded the Asiatic-Pacific Medal, the American Area Medal and the Victory Medal. Sam’s military service was a distinction that brought him and his family tremendous pride and rarely was he seen without ‘his hat’ embroidered with “WWII Veteran”.

Throughout his life, Sam stood out in the best of ways. ‘Papa Sam’ is probably best known for his jokes, so it was only natural that he served as the president of the Toastmasters Club. Sam was also a member of the American Legion.

Beyond his service in the Navy and many life accomplishments, nothing brought Sam greater pride and joy than his family. Sam is survived by his loving wife of 73 years, Mary Lou, and their eight children, Susan of Durham, NC, Mark (Joanna) of Massillon, Matthew of Kent, Sandra (Ramon Torres) of Wilmington, NC, Mary Beth (Marco Condos) of Ravenna, Steve of Efland, NC, Michael of Kent, and Marci (Jim Boxler) of Massillon, 15 grandchildren, and 13 great grandchildren.

Sam’s life was full of countless historic events and for his family his passing marks the end of an era. Though life will never be the same, the family is grateful for the time, the memories, the virtues, and the laughs he brought to us.

Calling hours will be held Wednesday, June 16th, from 5:00-7:00PM at Bissler & Sons Funeral Home, 628 W. Main St. Kent, OH 44240.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated at 10:00AM on Thursday at St. Patrick Catholic Church with the Rev. Fr. Richard Pentello as Celebrant. Burial will follow at Grandview Memorial Park.  In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to St. Patrick Catholic Church.