Passed away at Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto, in his 90th year, with his daughter, Lesley, by his side. Sam is survived by and will be greatly missed by his beloved wife of more than 60 years, Audrey (nee Finch), son Chris (Tina), daughter Lesley, grandson Adam (Zeinab) and sister Joan Ruscica-Hamilton (Art) and many nieces and nephews. Sam was predeceased by his brother Tom, and sisters Nell Tumino (George), Concetta, Connie Volpe (Frank), and Anna Trevor-Wilson (Doug).

Sam was born to the late Giuseppe and Corradina (nee Mizzi) Ruscica on October 29, 1932, in Toronto, Ontario. Sam worked in the construction industry with Ruscica Construction for most of his working life. He was particularly proud of their work in developing Victoria Village where the family spent many wonderful years on Ruscica Drive.

Sam was always happiest at the cottage in Muskoka where he was constantly busy keeping everything perfect, but could be found at the end of the day in a Muskoka chair on the dock with a cold beer in hand looking out at the lake. Anyone who knew Sam, knew him to be kind and generous with his time, willing to help friends and neighbours with any tasks or repairs that needed to be done. Over the years, Sam made many friends while walking one of his beloved dogs through the neighbourhood.

Visitation will take place at the Pine Hills Cemetery and Funeral Centre, 625 Birchmount Road, Scarborough, ON, M1K 1R1 on Thursday, April 21 from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. If desired, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the Sunnybrook Foundation, 2705 Bayview Avenue KGW01, Toronto, ON, M4N 3M5. We would like to thank the many caring doctors, nurses and staff for their compassionate care of Sam during the time he spent at Sunnybrook.