Saverio (Sam) Conte
CONTE, Saverio “Sam”
December 7, 1943 – March 12, 2026
On March 12, 2026, the world unexpectedly lost a beloved husband, dedicated father, proud Nonno, and trusted friend. Sam passed away at the age of 82 at Guelph General Hospital, surrounded by his loving wife and family. Though he left us on a cold March morning, the warmth he brought to others endures. His quick wit, generous spirit, and gift for being the life of every gathering continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew him.
Sam is predeceased by his parents, Alberto and Genoveffa Conte (Albanese); his brothers‑in‑law, John Maggiolo and Julio Conte; his niece, Lorella Maggiolo; and his nephew, Berto Conte.
Sam leaves behind his loving wife, June; his children, Jim (Pauline) Conte, Dean (Karen) Conte, and Sheri (Jeff) Bryer; and his grandchildren, Martin (Jennifer), Melanie (Therin), Nico, Shannon (Ryan), Alex, Ben, Sammy, Andrea (Dennis), and Ryan. He also leaves behind his sisters, Rita Conte, Diva Maggiolo, and Teresa (Mario) Barozzi, along with his loving in‑laws: Carol (Eldie) Wettlaufer, Paul Grein, Bruce (Charlotte) Grein, Lynne (Doug) Beingessner, Robert Grein, Dale (Maureen) Grein, and Kathy (Mike) Catarancuic, as well as many nieces and nephews.
Sam’s journey began in Ortona Dei Marsi, Italy, where he grew up with his parents and three sisters—Rita, Diva, and Teresa. He immigrated to Canada at the age of 11, where he quickly adapted to his new life in Guelph, ON.
Sam first crossed paths with the love of his life in 1962 at a dance, a moment that began a partnership lasting more than six decades. They married on October 2, 1965, and welcomed three beloved children: Jim, Dean, and Sheri. Their life together was rich with affection, humour, and the kind of easy banter that only true soulmates share. From travels through the Caribbean to ski trips, warm Florida winters, and summers at Pike Lake, their years were filled with joy and adventure. As a dad, he was forever dedicated to helping—whether fixing plumbing, cutting down a tree, feeding the dogs cheese, or dropping off his homemade prosciutto or sausage, which he was so proud of. Dad, I will forever miss my daily phone calls when you so affectionately asked me, “Buongiono, come stai? Bene.” (xoxo Sheri)
Of all the roles Sam embraced in life, being a Nonno to his grandchildren brought him some of the greatest joy. We remember wine time in his cold cellar, piggyback rides through the house, tree forts built with care, fishing trips, buying Pokémon cards before he even knew what they were, helping his grandkids move, and cheering loudly at Storm games. He stood with us through every soccer season, every milestone, and every chapter of our lives—always our biggest supporter.
Sam kept his family traditions alive with pride, especially during our annual tomato season. His habit of drinking homemade wine from a Tim Hortons cup became one of the small, endearing quirks we all loved. His famous beef jerky was a treasure he shared generously. The Conte family picnics were among his happiest days—laughing with his sisters and brothers‑in‑law, catching up with nieces and nephews, and playing bocce with the same competitive joy he brought to everything. And despite complaining every year about the vast number of Christmas gifts under the tree, we all knew he secretly loved it.
Sam’s days were full of the activities that brought him joy and connection. Whether he was at the Hunt Camp, on the golf course, riding his bike, tending to his beloved tomato plants, enjoying a beer or whisky with friends, or watching a hockey game, he embraced every moment. His energy, enthusiasm, and love for being surrounded by others made these times unforgettable. And we can’t forget how much Sam loved his cut‑off denim shorts, shirtless on a hot summer day with a cold beer in hand. He always made time to visit his countless friends and was diligent in taking special care of his three sisters with frequent visits, sometimes several times a week – only asking that he be “paid” in food and wine or coffee. He will be deeply missed by so many.
Friends and family will be received for visitation at the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 206 Norfolk St., Guelph, Monday, March 23, 2026 from 5 – 8 pm. Memorial service will be held in the funeral home chapel on Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at 11 am. Reception to follow in the Wall-Custance Family Reception Centre. Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com.
As an expression of sympathy, donations in Sam’s name may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada or a charity of your choice.
A tree will be planted in memory of Saverio (Sam) Conte in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.