Samuel J. "Sam" Schmader, 81, of Lucinda passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, July 24, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on April 21, 1945, Sam was the son of the late Clarence and Florence Schmader. Raised with a strong work ethic, he spent his early years tending to the many responsibilities of his family's farm. Those values of hard work, dedication, and service remained with him throughout his life.

On April 15, 1967, Sam married his high school sweetheart, Ann Judy Schmader, who survives. Together they shared 59 wonderful years of marriage.

Sam worked for many years and was a proud member of the Labor's Union Local 952, contributing to numerous construction projects throughout his career. He took great pride in his work and often shared stories about the jobs he completed and the lifelong friendships he formed with his fellow workers. A true "jack of all trades" there seemed to be very little Sam couldn't fix or build.

Sam graduated from St. Joseph High School and continued his faith by being a lifelong member of their parish community.

Although Sam was no stranger to hard work, he also knew how to enjoy life. Whether he was tackling one of his projects or lending a helping hand to a friend, neighbor, or family member, he was happiest when he was busy. He found great joy in the outdoors, spending time hunting, fishing, gardening, tending his yard, relaxing on his porch swing, and going for walks with Ann. He also enjoyed watching classic westerns, sharing stories over a cold beer, and most of all spending time with grandchildren, family, and friends.

Sam was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend whose greatest pride was his family.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Ann Judy Schmader; his three children, Kevin and wife Kim Schmader of Brockport, PA. Barb and husband Mark Kramer of Hanvover, PA, and Maggie and husband Mark Mortimer of Blairsville PA. and his seven cherished grandchildren Samantha and husband Austin Van Treuren, Alexis and husband Dustin Reitz, Allison Kramer, Landon Schmader, Lauren Schmader, Nicholas Mortimer, and Trenton Mortimer. He was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Addison and Austin Reitz.

Sam is also survived by his loving siblings, Janet Weaver, Bill and Elaine Schmader, Russell Schmader, Pam Wolbert, and Bridget and Gary Collett, his brother-in-law Jeff and Vicki Judy; numerous nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in his heart, and many dear friends who became like family over the years.

In addition to his parents, Sam was preceded in death by his father and mother-in-law, Henry and Joan Judy, his brother Clarence Schmader, his brothers-in law, Ron Wolbert and Charlie Weaver, his sister-in-law, Barb Schmader, and many cherished friends who were considered family.

Sam will be remembered for his strong work ethic, quiet strength, his sense of humor and willingness to help anyone. His legacy lives through the family he loved and the friendships he treasured. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Family and friends will be received on Friday, July 31, 2026, from 9:45am to 10:45am at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 112 Rectory Lane, Lucinda, PA 16235. Mass of Christian burial will follow at 11:00am with Rev. John Nwankwo, parochial vicar, as celebrant. Burial will take place in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery following Mass.