Samuel Joseph ‘Sam’ Sheusi, of Lewiston, NY, peacefully passed away on December 22, 2022, surrounded by his beloved family, at the age of 87.
Born in Niagara Falls, NY, Sam was the son of the late Joseph and Felicia ‘Katie’ (Riggi) Sheusi.
Sam earned a master’s degree from the University of Buffalo, as well as multiple culinary certifications through the Culinary Institute of America. He co-owned and operated Donna Felicia’s Restaurant in Lewiston, NY for over 25 years, serving as the Executive Chef (CEC) and earning many awards for his culinary excellence. Concurrently, Sam became a culinary arts tenured professor and coordinator of the Culinary Arts Program at Niagara County Community College for many years. As a Certified Culinary Educator (CCE), he was proud to be a mentor and an inspiration for a generation of local chefs.
Sam made multiple appearances as ‘Chef Sam’ on QVC and PBS. He also consulted with major local and global companies. He loved to support many local functions by volunteering his time, talent and expertise.
Sam was a member of the Association of Professional Chefs and the American Culinary Federation. In his spare time, he loved gardening, attending the opera, growing and collecting orchids, traveling, working out with his trainer, and spending time with his family.
Sam was married to his high school sweetheart Frances Ann (Villella) Sheusi for 64 years, who passed away peacefully five days later. Sam is survived by his children, Johanna (Andrew) Moll, Felicia (Robert) Kostecky, and Salvatore (Theresa) Sheusi, and his grandchildren, Anthony Blue and Abigail Sheusi, as well as many nieces and nephews. Sam was predeceased by his brother Benjamin (Joan) Sheusi.
A visitation will be held on Friday, January 20 from 3-8 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY 14304. A Mass of Christian Burial for Sam and his wife, Frances, will be celebrated on Saturday, January 21 at 11:30 AM at St. Peter’s Church, 620 Center Street, Lewiston, NY 14092, followed by interment of cremains at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, 3806 Pine Ave, Niagara Falls, NY 14301.
In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to the Upper Mountain Volunteer Fire Company, 839 Moyer Rd, Lewiston, NY 14092. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.
