Obituary of Samuel David Sturm

Jeffersonville, NY

Sam Sturm, a resident of Jeffersonville, NY, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at Montgomery Nursing and Rehab. He was 89 years old. Born on May 5, 1935, in the Bronx, he was the son of the late Jack and Rose (Solominsky) Sturm. 

Sam had a soul that we were all lucky to have experienced—the kind of soul that uplifted us and inspired those around him. He had a remarkable ability to draw crowds with his fascinating stories, his love for red wine, and his deep devotion to his family. As a lifelong musician, Sam led a rich life filled with music and adventure. He played trumpet alongside renowned artists such as Benny Goodman and Sammy Kaye, touring with big bands and captivating audiences around the world. He also proudly served in the Army Band during his four years of military service. 

In 1959, Sam made his way to the Catskills, where he established a legacy as an accomplished bandleader and trumpet player at many of the famed resorts of the time, including Grossingers, the Concord, Brown’s, Raleigh, Villa Roma, and others. His love for music and performance left an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of hearing him play.

Sam is survived by his wife, Kathleen Manzi Sturm; his children, Andrew Sturm (Marilyn), Daniel Sturm (Dina), and Jonathan Coppolino (Gabriella); his grandchildren, Allison Rankin, Ashley Shapiro (Conor), Samantha DelBene (Jesse), Kelly Sturm, Zachary Sturm, Jena Ford (Dylan), Dominick Coppolino, and Mia Coppolino; and his great-granddaughters, Abbie, Toni Marie, and Raya.

He was predeceased by his first wife, Linda Sturm, and his daughter, Jessica Rankin.

A funeral service will take place on Friday, February 14, 2025, at 11:00am at the Joseph N. Garlick Funeral Home, 388 Broadway, Monticello, NY 12701. Interment will immediately follow at the Evergreen Cemetery, Route 17B in Bethel. 

Memorial contributions in Sam’s name may be made to the Gary Sinise Foundation by visiting: https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/

Arrangements are honorably entrusted to the Joseph N. Garlick Funeral Home - 845-794-7474 or www.josephngarlickfuneralhome.com.