Samuel Angelo Bufalini

Obituary Samuel Angelo Bufalini Sam Bufalini was born near Ambridge, PA., on Feb. 4, 1923, the son of Italian immigrants Angelo Bufalini and Pasqualina Bellacorso. He enlisted in the U.S. Army at the outbreak of WWII and served with distinction, winning a Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts while rising to the rank of sergeant/squad leader in H Company, 44th Division, 114th Infantry. While training at Fort Lewis, he met Barbara Lavorato and his life in Tacoma, WA. began. On Dec. 2, 1945 they were married, a love affair that lasted more than 65 years. A truck driver/salesman by trade, he worked until 2006 despite debilitating pain from a collision in 1972. Sam was happiest in his woodworking shop, where he designed and crafted beautiful oak furniture. No friend's request for a favor ever went unanswered. Sam is survived by his wife Barbara, sons Samuel and his wife Moira, and David and his wife Kristine; sisters Leona Masciantonio, Emma Henle and Sylvia Costanza, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, two grandchildren and two great grandchildren. He was predeceased by brothers Joseph and Louis, and sister Enis Masciantonio. Our heartfelt thanks to the staff at Franciscan Hospice House, whose tender care eased the pain of Sam's final days. A visitation will be held Sun., Jan. 2nd, 2011, 6p.m. at Gaffney Funeral Home, 1002 South Yakima Ave. in Tacoma. The funeral will be held at St. Rita's Catholic Church, 1403 S. Ainsworth St., Tacoma, WA. on Mon., Jan. 3rd, at 10:30a.m.