Sam Donzelli

Sam Donzelli

Sam Donzelli, 92, passed away June 3, 2023. Born in Akron July 1, 1930 to Joe and Bessie (Errigo) Donzelli, he was a life-long resident of the Akron area. He graduated from Garfield High School in 1948, before attending Akron University with aspirations to study medicine. He served in the US Navy during the Korean War on the USS Los Angeles.

Following the war, he worked at Goodyear Aerospace and opened Belle Rose Florist along with his wife, Bonnie, which later became Donzell's Flower and Garden Center. In 1965 he partnered with Bill Gale and opened two Gale's Garden Centers in the Cleveland area.

In 1971 he and wife Bonnie purchased their dream farm, Bonnie Oaks Farm, in New Franklin, Ohio, where they raised horses and grew plants for the garden store. It was on the farm that he raised his family.

During his life he enjoyed snow skiing, boating, tennis, gardening, cooking and spending time with family.

He will be remembered for his hard work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by is wife of 62 years, Bonnie; daughter, Tammy (Donzelli) Gray; sister, Josephine Blanco; and an infant son.

He is survived by daughters, Julie Donzelli DiFeo (Richard Rouser), Pam Eaton-Donzelli (Cody); grandchildren, Sam and Ryan Donzelli (Carolyn), Andrew Donzelli, Gary Gray-Donzelli, Sara DiFeo, Alanna DiFeo, Michael DiFeo and Zac Rouser; sister, Nancy Gerak; many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank Dr. Nemer, Dr. Pietrolungo, the Summa Healthcar Team and Visiting Angels.

Calling hours 4-8p.m. Thursday, June 8, 2023 at Ciriello and Carr Funeral Home, 39 S. Miller Rd. in Fairlawn, Mass of Christian Burial 11a.m. Friday at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, 4019 Manchester Rd. Akron, OH 44319, PLEASE MEET AT CHURCH. Interment at Holy Cross Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Francis de Sales Church, or Boys Town, 14100 Crawford St. Boys Town, NE 68010.

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