Sam Palazzolo, age 38, of Kirkwood, Missouri, passed away peacefully on June 25, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on May 7, 1987, in St. Louis, Sam was a devoted son, husband, father, and friend who touched the lives of everyone he met.
Sam proudly served his country in the United States Army, enlisting at the young age of 17. During his nine years of service, he achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant and was deployed to Iraq and Egypt, among other locations. Sam was deeply proud of his service and the opportunity to fight for his country.
On December 19, 2020, Sam married the love of his life, Leah. Together, they built a beautiful family, blessed with two children, Lucia, age 3, and Milo, 11 months. Sam’s face would light up at the sight of his children, and his love for his wife was unparalleled. He was a devoted family man, always putting Leah and their children first.
Sam was a beloved salesman at Ryder Truck Rental, known for his hard work and dedication. He had a gift for storytelling, bringing laughter and joy to those around him. Sam never met a stranger, and his gentle, kind heart left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.
Throughout his life, Sam formed deep and lasting friendships, from his childhood days, through his love of hockey, during his high school years, and the Army. These friendships were a testament to his loyal and caring nature. He cherished his family and friends deeply, sharing countless adventures with them, including trips to Florida and travels around the world. Sam was especially close to his parents, spending many cherished days with his mom, dad, and stepdad.
In 2024, Sam was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. Despite the challenges, he faced his illness with incredible strength and positivity, never complaining and always maintaining a hopeful outlook. His courage and resilience were an inspiration to all who knew him.
Sam is survived by his loving wife, Leah; his cherished children, Lucia and Milo; his devoted mother, Deborah Palazzolo, and stepfather, Gerry Grosse; his father, Michael Palazzolo; father-in-law Lee Wellen, brother-in-law Travis Wellen (Jessie Wellen), sister-in-law Tara Cory (Michael Cory), nephews and niece. Sam’s memory lives on in his wide circle of family and friends who will miss him dearly. Sam was preceded in death by his Popo and Nana and paternal grandparents, his mother-in-law Lucy, and his nephew Jaisen. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering loyalty.
Services: Visitation at Kutis Affton Chapel on Monday, July 7th from 2pm to 9pm. Visitation on July 8th at 10am followed by funeral mass at 11:30am at St. Gerard Majella Catholic Church in Kirkwood, MO.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Deborah Palazzolo for Lucia and Milo Palazzolo, mailing address: 5408 Hollow Oak Ct., St. Louis, MO 63129.
Sam’s spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. He will be remembered for his kindness, his laughter, and his unwavering love for his family.
Sam was one in a million. Always made me laugh, lit up any room he was in. I’m sure gonna miss ya cuz. 🇺🇸❤️
Til the glorious day we meet again.
The world has lost a true hero, loving family man, and dear son. There are no words to ease the pain his family and friends suffer with the loss of Sam. However, all of us have cherished memories and moments that will be our constant reminder of him. May he now rest in peace. ♥️
Sam was a great guy.When he walk into the room with that smile he always had on his face,it made you happy.Were going to miss you,but your going to a great place.Leah and the two little ones, I will be praying for you.Sam will still be looking over his family from heaven.Sam you were a great husband and father.Take care buddy,were all gonna missed you badly.
We are so sorry to hear this, Sam was a great person, we took Sam on vacation one year, he kept us laughing the whole time. Prayers for his entire family, may the Good Lord wrap his arms around all of you. May he rest in peace, One day we will meet again,
Sam was filled with character from the time he was born. He made friends everywhere he went. If you met him you could not forget him. He knew he wanted to serve his country from a very young age. Hockey was his sport. Sam was a wonderful Son who became an amazing man, dedicated soldier and a loyal friend to so many. Sam’s greatest love was his beautiful family. There are many things I will remember about Sam but I am surprised to say the most recent is how positive, kind & well mannered Sam was right up to the end. Sam will be missed but will live on through his family and all of the lives he touched. I pray as his family grieves they all find peace in everything they did with & for Sam this past year. Rest in peace Sam.
So sorry to hear this. May God in his wisdom wrap his arms around you and comfort you. Leah I know this will be very difficult but you have a great family to help you. If ever you need anything please don’t hesitate to call or come see me.
Sam was an amazing person. We have so many great memories of Sam particularly his smile and great sense of humor. We wish we could do something to ease your pain. We pray you find peace and comfort during this difficult time.
God Bless you SSG Palazzolo, Your Service to our country, and love for your family is a blessing to al who served and new you, we have lost a great soldier and family man. You can go with another hero from your family “Daddy Joe” who earned two Bronze Stars with General Patton!
Sam’s passing has broken the hearts of everyone who was fortunate enough to know and love him. I knew him as a loving husband, father, son and friend. He was a true hero in every sense. We pray that all his family and friends will find comfort and peace thru this difficult time.