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Esau Albert Sam

Esau Albert Sam

DUNKIRK – It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Esau Albert Sam on March 26, 2024, in Dunkirk, NY. Esau was a beacon of resilience, hard work, and dedication throughout his long and healthy life. Just shy of his 101st birthday, he leaves behind a legacy that profoundly influenced not only his family but also the broader community and the WNY produce industry at large.

Born in Dunkirk New York, on August 8, 1923, Esau was a proud veteran of World War II, serving as a military police officer stationed in India. This period of his life was marked by the same dedication and hard work that would define his entire career.

After the war, Esau, with his father, brothers, and sister Helen, became one of the founding members of the A. Sam Family Produce Companies in Dunkirk, NY. His influence in the produce industry was immense, dedicating his entire life to his craft and becoming a respected figure witin the community. Esau’s dedication to his community extended beyond his business ventures. He was a long-time member of the Free Masons in Chautauqua County, embodying the fraternity’s values of brotherhood, charity, and truth. His life’s work, both in his professional and personal endeavors, has left an enduring impact on his family, his business, and the community at large.

Esau’s work ethic, problem-solving skills, and ability to inspire those around him were unparalleled. He was greatly influenced by Dale Carnegie’s principles in “How to Win Friends and Influence People,” which no doubt played a role in his ability to lead with kindness, respect, and wisdom. His quick wit and out-of-the-box thinking were just a few of the traits that made Esau a remarkable individual.

Esau is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Susan Sam, his brothers Mike A. Sam, Samuel A. Sam, Norman A. Sam, Castle A. Sam, and his sister Mary Catalano, along with his daughter Barbara A. Sam. He is survived by his sister Helen Sam, his children Charles E. Sam, Robert E. Sam, and Grace M. Sam, grandchildren Alex E. Sam and Jacob E. Sam, great-grandchildren Blake M. Sam, Benjamin E. Sam, and Alex Marie, along with many close cousins, neices and nephews.

Visitation will be held at Larson Timko Funeral Home from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Friday, March 29, 2024. A funeral service will be celebrated in his honor at 11:00 AM at St. John the Baptist, Episcopal Church, West 4th Street, Dunkirk, NY, on Saturday March 30, 2024.

Esau’s legacy is not only in the successful businesses he helped to build but also in the strong work ethic and perseverance that he instilled in his family. His memory will continue to inspire and influence generations to come. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the,Fredonia College Foudation, to be put towards the Esau & Susan Sam Scholarship that supports students in the Communication Disorders and Sciences Dept. Please make checks payable to “Fredonia College Foundation, 272 Central Avenue, Fredonia, New York 14063. Please make the donation in memory of Esau Albert Sam, a man who made a difference in the lives of many.