Samuel Spatuzzi

Mr. Samuel “Nitro” Spatuzzi, 80, passed away peacefully, April 27, 2025, after several years of health issues.

Samuel was born August 28, 1944, a son of the late Samuel and Philomena (Curcio) Spatuzzi. He was raised and educated locally and a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School. At one time, Samuel was joined in marriage to the former Carol Mayhew, with whom he shared his two beautiful daughters.

Affectionately known as “Nitro” because of his passion for the automobile and racing industry, Sam’s favorite hobby was working on cars, especially those he raced. He was very passionate about drag racing and spent years building his beloved Lotus for the quarter mile. He enjoyed showing his car and attending many local car shows, and was even included on the judging panel at the MWPI Car Show.

A loving father and grandfather, Sammy adored his grand kids and attended every and any sporting event he could. He was an avid tennis player and taught the kids (well, he attempted to) how to play. They spent many hours at the Parkway practicing on the tennis courts and playing. Sammy competed in many tournaments and most of the time he was a good sport! He was always up for a good time, never said no to a party, no matter what the occasion. Sam was definitely "The Man". Sammy was proud of his Italian heritage and instilled these traditions and beliefs in his daughters and their families. He will be greatly missed.

Sammy is survived by his daughters, Carol Anne (Spatuzzi) Rys, and Michelle (Spatuzzi) Ham; grandchildren, Stephen, Jessica, Tiffany, Marco, and Talia; great-grandson, Anthony, also affectionately known as “Big T”; sister, Maria Theresa Zupancic; sister-in-law, Wendy Spatuzzi; special friend, Betty Tyksinski; Sammy also had a special bond with his nieces and nephews, Rich, Tim, Frank, Carla, Joelle, Janese, and their families, as well as, several cousins, and the many Pisano's he has made throughout the years. He was predeceased by his brother, Joe; and has been reunited in heaven with his grandson, Michael, who left us all too soon.

To honor Sammy, there will be a memorial service at St. Anthony and St. Agnes Church, Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 12 noon. In lieu of flowers and in remembrance of Sammy, please consider a donation to Anita’s Steven Swan Humane Society at anitas-sshs.org

The family would like to thank the staff on the second floor at Focus Rehab, for the care and compassion shown to Sammy during his stay, also special thanks to the Utica Fire Department, for the many times they came to lend assistance, it will never be forgotten.

“Sammy, you were The Man! See you at the finish line.

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