Sam Greco, 82, of Oelwein passed away on Thursday February 13, 2014 at Mercy Hospital in Oelwein. Visitation will be from 3-7 PM on Sunday February 16, 2014 at the Geilenfeld Funeral Home in Oelwein. Funeral services will be at 3 PM on Monday February 17, 2014 at the Geilenfeld Funeral Home. He will be laid to rest in Woodlawn Cemetery at Oelwein. A memorial fund has been established in Sam’s name.
Samuel Joseph Greco was born on December 9, 1931 in Oelwein to parents Louis and Julia (DeDeco) Greco. He graduated from Oelwein High School in 1952. Sam then served his country honorably in the United States Army during the Korean War. In May of 1961, Sam was united in marriage with Jackie Heldt. They later divorced. Sam worked at Donaldson Company for 39 years, retiring in 1994.
Sam enjoyed trout fishing, trips to Canada and gardening. He was an exceptional cook and enjoyed sharing his Italian food with his friends and family. He was an Iowa Hawkeyes fan and a devoted Cubs fan. Most of all he loved his family, grandchildren and spending time with his special friend Colleen.
Left to celebrate Sam’s life are his children: Nancy (Randy) Myott of Oelwein and Michael (Lisa) Greco of Oelwein; his grandchildren: Michele Courtney, Melissa Avenson, Kelly (Avenson) Goettelman , Katie O’Loughlin, Mike Rabagia, Sammy Myott and Abby Greco; his 3 great grandchildren; his brother Pete (Iva) Greco of Oelwein; his son-in-law Tim O’Loughlin; as well as many friends.
Sam was preceded in death by his parents, his daughter Karri O’Loughlin (2004) and his brother Tony Greco; his sister-in-law Eilleen Greco.