Ellwood City, PA — Five local groups came together for a surprise ‘appreciation breakfast’ honoring Samuel Teolis on Saturday, October 12 at the Wolverine Restaurant.
For over seven generations Sam Teolis’ devotion to faith, family and community has been legendary. He has touched many lives in the greater Ellwood City area and beyond; as the first Italian American mayor of Ellwood City, member of the American Legion, Veterans’ Honor Guard, a passionate veterans’ advocate, funeral director, and involvement in numerous initiatives in his faith community’ said Master of Ceremonies Bob Morabito.
Pete Maietta, First Vice Commander Beaver and Lawrence County Veterans Honor Guard; Frank Aloi, Vice President Holy Name Society; Mike DeOtto, Wolves Club Den ll President; Mark Strosnider, SAG President; and Joe Fisher, Commander American Legion Post 157 offered remarks concerning Mr. Teolis’ leadership and contribution to their involved organizations. The common theme of all those tributes was that ‘Sam Teolis is an honorable, kind man who proudly serves his community with dignity, integrity, compassion, and humility’.
Mr. Teolis, in his comments, expressed his gratitude for the ‘surprise appreciation’ gathering and briefly touched on some of his marquee accomplishments. He noted that he was raised in Ellwood City, educated here, established his place of business here and as a public office holder was always striving for the betterment of our community.
As chairman of Mr. Teolis’s tribute, Cosmo Morabito was recognized by MC Bob Morabito. Dr. John DeCaro Sr. gave the invocation, and John Biondi gave the benediction.
PICTURED BELOW: (Seated), Honoree Sam Teolis; (L- R standing) Pete Maietta, First Vice Commander; Frank Aloi, Vice President Holy Name Society; Mike DeOtto, Wolves Club Den ll President; Mark Strosnider, SAG President; Joe Fisher, Commander; Cosmo Morabito, event chairman.
Respectfully submitted by:
John Biondi
American Legion Post #157
jbiondi@zoominternet.net
CONGRATULATIONS DAD !! MANY THANKS TO ALL YOUR FRIENDS WHO HONORED YOU AT THIS SURPRISE BREAKFAST. LOVE, THE NOCERA FAMILY. LOU, DIANNE, LOUIE, MEGAN, VINCENT, ALEC , ANTHONY AND SOON TO ARRIVE LOUIS V!
Feels good to see this type of recognition for someone who’s dedicated themselves to community and faith as Sam Teolis has, especially when it’s unexpected. Congrats Uncle Sam and thanks to the other leaders / groups for the kind and inspiring gesture.
Congratulations Sam. You are a wonderful person we always enjoy your presence at the family get togethers God bless you love Don and Toni Rutter