Sam Saleme, 85, of Beaumont, died Friday, January 18, 2013, at Harbor Hospice, Beaumont. He was born on August 25, 1927, in Beaumont, to Catherine Palermo Saleme and Thomas Saleme.
A native and lifelong resident of Beaumont, Sam enlisted in the Navy at the age of sixteen and defended his country in the Pacific Theater during World War II. He also served during the Korean War.
After his two tours of duty in the Navy, he married JoAnn Canizaro. He also became the small business owner of Sam Saleme’s Barber Shop for thirty years. He loved his family, his children, and his country. He coached his West End Little League teams to four championship games and two city championships. He will be greatly missed, not only for his presence, but how he stood for the things he loved: God, family, and country.
Survivors include his wife of fifty-eight years, JoAnn Saleme; sons, Sam J. Saleme, Jr. and Gregory M. Saleme; and grandson, Gregory M. Saleme II, all of Beaumont.
A gathering of Mr. Saleme’s family and friends will begin at 12:00 p.m., Wednesday, January 23, 2013, at Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday at St. Jude Thaddeus Catholic Church, 6825 Gladys Avenue, Beaumont. A graveside service will be held at Houston National Cemetery, Houston, at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, P.O. Box 1000, Department 142, Memphis, Tennessee 38148.
