WESTFIELD – John Joseph Samel, 96, died Wednesday July, 3 2013 in Noble Hospital. John was born in Westfield and attended local schools including Westfield Vocational High School.
He began his 50 plus year auto body business in Russell and later built the shop in Westfield. He was known by many for his honesty, integrity and generosity. He was a picker of antiques and collectibles. He adored and valued the love of his family.
He was predeceased by his wife of 61 years Joyce. He leaves one daughter, Cheryl Shea and her husband Roy of Ferrisburgh, VT., two grandchildren, Vienna Morrill of Cape Elizabeth, ME and Cole Shea currently of San Diego, CA. He also leaves his faithful cat Scooter. His mother is the late Mary “Gedzik” Samel and father Joseph Samel both from Poland. John worked for Pratt & Whitney during WWII and often spoke of the days working for Roosevelt’s WPA program during the depression. He was an extraordinarily kind hearted man and a member of the Greatest Generation.
The funeral for John will be held on Monday, July 8, at 10:00 a.m. from the Firtion-Adams Funeral Service, 76 Broad Street, Westfield. Burial will follow in St. Joseph’s Cemetery. Calling hours will precede the funeral Monday morning from 9:00-10:00 a.m.
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