Salvatore “Sam” Joseph Vitale passed away on August 11, 2018, at the age of 95.

Sam was born on August 16, 1922 in Toledo, Ohio to Mary (Mercurio) and Salvatore Vitale.

Sam joined the United States Army Air Corps and proudly saved his country during WWII.

On September 2, 1944 he married Peggy Norwood.  In 1984 they established a life in Monte Vista, Colorado where Sam and Emmett Norwood opened Norwood Oil Company. Sam provided full automotive services, to everyone in the San Luis Valley. His services were provided day or night, completed with professionalism, integrity, and Sam’s ever-present smile.

Sam loved to play golf, cheering on the Denver Broncos, crossword puzzles and sudoku. He served as a LT. in the civil air patrol and enjoyed the craft of aviation. Sam was a devoted member of the Church of Christ.

Sam was proceeded in the death by his parents and wife Peggy Vitale. Following the death of Peggy, Sam was blessed to find happiness with his marriage to Beverly Barnes on November 14, 2001.

Together they created a second home in Creede, Colorado. Where they enjoyed the peace and beauty of the mountains.

He is survived by his wife Beverly Barns-Vitale; Children: Laura Vitale, Donna (Gaylen) Bush, Martha (John) Ball, Michael (Janet) Vitale, Vincent (Tyler Tousley) Vitale, and Paul Barnes; grandchildren: Tracy (Wesley) Lack, Kelly Phillips, Gaylene (Gui) Swann, Tamera (Mike) Jones, Erika Ball, Gwen (Conrad) Crist, Paul Vitale, and Christina (Anthony) Malena. He is also survived by three sister, one brother, 13 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great children.

A memorial service was held on August 15, 2018 at the Monte Vista Church of Christ. Cremation was chosen with interment to follow at a later date.

Contributions are suggested to La Puente and may be made in care of the funeral home office.  To express condolences to the family, please visit www.rogersfunerals.com 

Rogers Family Mortuary in Monte Vista is in care of the arrangements.