Samuel F. Merendino, Sr., 85, passed away peacefully at his home on May 30, 2014.  He is survived by his loving wife Vilma of 62 years, and was "the dearest husband in the world."

Sam and Vilma met at the Carovillese Club where he was performing at a dance she attended with a girlfriend.  After seeing her on the dance floor, he set his accordion on the bandstand, directed the other two musicians to continue playing, and asked Vilma to dance.  Two weeks later they were engaged, four months later they were married.  Sam and Vilma were blessed with 11 children, 17 grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren.  After graduating from South High School, he proudly worked one year at Firestone alongside his father Frank.  He lived his entire life in Akron, and retired from E.I. DuPont after a 36-year career.

Music filled his life.  As leader of the Sam Merendino Band, he was well known in the community, playing in a quartet with the same band mates for three decades.  He also taught music at Falls Music Center for over 10 years.

Sam enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, who he encouraged in each of their endeavors.  He had a great sense of humor, was a joy to be around and was loved by many. Sam was a sports fan and loved to play cards. Adored by his children, Sam lived his faith and taught by example. Loyal, kind, and loving, he believed in a strong work ethic and love of family.  He will be tremendously missed by all who knew him.

Sam was preceded in death by his parents, Santa (DiPietro) and Frank Merendino, daughter-in-law Jennifer, brothers-in-law Bob Gergosky and Nino Usberghi,  and the eight brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law of his wife's family.  Along with his wife Vilma he is survived by his sons and daughters, Frank, Filomena, Mary Ann (Allan), Sammy (Georgia), Paul (Ann), Tina (Mark), Tom (Lisa), Rose (Jason), David (Aimee), Danny, and Angelo.; 17 grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.  He will be remembered lovingly by his sisters and brothers-in-law, Josephine Gergosky, Jennie Usberghi, Angie Papatonis (Frank), and Rose Casalinova (Frank), adoring nieces and nephews, and many friends and family near and far.

Special thanks are extended to FD and Jack.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Right To Life of Summit County, 572 West Market Street, Akron, OH 44303.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 A.M., Wednesday, at Blessed Trinity Church, 300 E. Tallmadge Ave., Akron.  Burial will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery. Friends will be received from 2-8 P.M., Tuesday, at Hennessy Funeral Home (corner of York and Main), 552  N. Main St., Akron.