Ronald Samara

Ronald Samara, 74 of Worcester passed away peacefully with family at his bedside Saturday, December 23, 2017.  Ron was born March 1, 1943 in Worcester, a son of Robert and Janet (Haffty) Samara.  Raised in Worcester, he attended Worcester Vocational High School, and enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving his country proudly during the Vietnam War.   Ron returned home to meet Sharon at St George’s Orthodox Cathedral.  They married and settled in Shrewsbury to raise their family.  Gifted with the eye for perfection and ability to design, create and fix anything.  Ron founded, owned and operated Samara Contracting for over 40 years before retiring in 2015.   Ron lived life to the fullest.    Ron was an amazing father and grandfather.  He is survived by the family he cherished, Sherri Samara Kotosky and her husband Robert of Stow and Sandra Samara of Shrewsbury and David R Samara and his wife Jennifer of Shrewsbury; a brother, Joseph K. Samara and his wife Annmarie of Grafton and a sister; Brenda K. Troy of Shrewsbury; seven adoring grandchildren that called him “Jidu” Nicholas and Caroline Kotosky, Samara and Lillian Moriarty, Joseph, Catherine, and Cameron Samara; his former wife Sharon Samara ; Nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Ron was a member of the Worcester Detachment of the Marine Corps League, St George Orthodox Cathedral, the Grafton Post American Legion and the IAVC.  He was a black belt in Judo.  Ron loved working with his hands to create functional art using wood, glass and metal.  He enjoyed many hours in his workshop making furniture, toys, stained glass art, and so much more for his grandchildren and anyone that asked.  Ron had an all-embracing generosity with his time, his talents, his family and community.  His quick wit would put people at ease and make them laugh.  Ron was the life of the party.  Most importantly, his family was his life and cherished ever moment he could spend with them and his grandchildren. Friends and relatives are invited to calling hours, Tuesday, January 2nd from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St.  His funeral service will be held Wednesday, January 3rd from the funeral home with a procession to St George Orthodox Cathedral, 30 Anna St where Fr Milard Selim will celebrate his funeral liturgy at 10:00 am.  Burial will follow in Hope Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Veterans Inc, 60 Grove Street Worcester, whose mission is ending homelessness among veterans.  www.veteransinc.org