It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Samuel F. Montelione,
who peacefully entered eternal life on May 2, 2025, at the age of 70. Samuel was
born on March 22, 1955 to Samuel L. Montelione and Catherine Montelione.
Samuel, or “Sam” as he was known to his family and friends, was a man of
remarkable intellect, kindness, and quiet grace. A true master of the English
language, Sam’s love for words was rivaled only by his devotion to the world’s
greatest music. His ability to bring life to literature and his appreciation for music
were central to his identity.
In his beloved home of Ettrick, Wisconsin, Sam was the Saint Francis of his
community. His gentle spirit extended to the animals he lovingly cared for, from
cats and birds to deer, and occasionally, very carefully, the bears. Sam’s heart
was as wide as the Wisconsin landscape he cherished. He once shared, “The
reason I live in Ettrick is that it is so eternally quiet, where the people are friendly
and my neighbors are good. These are all the things I ever wanted in life.” Sam’s
humble contentment and genuine love for the simple joys of life touched
everyone who knew him.
Samuel was deeply loved by his family. He was the cherished brother of Mary
Rose Eisin ( Montelione) and Michelle Ippolito (Montelione), the devoted brother-
in-law to Gregory G. Eisin, and Jerry Wickman, an adoring uncle to Kathleen M.
Eisin-Robert (Geoff Robert), Gregory M. Eisin, Andrea Wickman and Alicia A.
Serafin (Robert Serafin). His love extended to his great-nieces and nephews;
Lauren Serafin, Joe Robert, Katie Robert, and Katelyn Serafin.
A special and enduring place in Sam’s heart belonged to Cathy Grove, whose
love and companionship brought him deep joy and peace. Their bond was quiet
and sincere, a reflection of the gentleness they both shared.
In his final years, Sam faced a courageous battle with cancer. True to his nature,
he endured the struggle with quiet strength, dignity, and unwavering grace. Even
through the challenges of illness, his spirit remained resilient, his compassion
undiminished, and his love for life intact.
Sam’s impact on his family and those who crossed his path was profound, his
warmth, wisdom, and quiet strength leaving a lasting imprint. His quiet yet
unwavering kindness, his love of nature, and his deep appreciation for those
around him made him a one-of-a-kind soul. While his physical presence will be
dearly missed, his spirit will remain in the quiet of Ettrick, in the song of the birds,
and in the hearts of those he loved.
There will be no formal services at this time.
Goodbye, Sam. Thank you for everything. Until we meet again.
The Jack Funeral Home in Blair is assisting the family.