His were the shoulders on which we stood to soar,

and his arms the soft ground on which to land when we fell.

Sam Gentile passed away February 27 at the age of 73 from complications from multiple sclerosis. Sam is preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Catherine, his brother Ross [Marianne Rocco], nephew Peter Gentile and sister-in-law Cathy Fotis. He is survived by his husband and companion of 42 years, William Fotis; loving sister Cathy [Jim] Hagstrom; nephews Cole and Frank; his in-laws, the Fotis/Davis Family; his dear friend of 68 years Carolyn Ray; and the family Sam and Bill built: Connie, Rich, Lolita, Kate, Cezary, Jacob, Philip, Sergi, Youlian, Taras, Mariyana, Joseph and Kancho.

Sam—a teacher, counselor, psychologist, Dean of Education and healthcare consultant—was known for his strength, humor, support, and love for and from so many who helped him manage his 29 years of multiple sclerosis.

"We'll meet again. Not sure when, but I know we'll meet again some sunny day.

Until we do, let your smile drive the dark clouds away

until the blue skies start shining through."

Celebration of Life Service to be determined at a later date.

In Memory of Samuel, donations can be made to:

Samuel J. Gentile Endowed Scholarship

DePaul University Office of Advancement

P. O Box 6740

Carol Stream, IL  60197-6740