Sam J. Messina, 68, of 826 Arsenal St., Watertown, passed October 8, 2016 at the Samaritan Medical Center.

Calling hours will be 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, October 11 at the Hart & Bruce Funeral Home.

A prayer service will be held 1 p.m. at the funeral home followed by a funeral service 1:30 at the New Way Assembly of God at 116 Haley St., Watertown.

Born on February 2, 1948 in Watertown, NY, son of Santo and Theresa (Leone) Messina, he attended Boon St. School and St. Anthony's School.

Following school Mr. Messina entered the US Navy on February 4, 1965 in Watertown, NY and was honorably discharged on July 13, 1965 from USNTC, Great Lakes, Illinois.

He married Darline Bellville of Ohio on June 29, 1969 at St. Anthony's Catholic Church.  The couple resided in Watertown.

Sam worked at NY AirBrake in the Corp Department from 1964 to 1980.  He then worked at Fort Drum as a truck driver and laborer for 27 years, retiring in 2010.

He was a member of the Watertown Assembly of God in Watertown and enjoyed woodworking and gardening.

Darline has worked for Freeman Bus Corp as a bus driver since 1986.

Among his survivors are his beloved wife of 37 years, Darline J. Messina, Watertown and three sons, Evan M. Messina, Santo Messina III and Kyle J. Messina, all of Watertown.

A brother, Pete Messina and two sisters, Catherine Harwood and Louri Dibble all passed before him.

Donations may be made to Parkinson's Association 4224 Trotwood Lane, Clay, NY 13041.

Online condolences may be made at www.hartandbrucefh.com