Sam Pasco

Sam Pasco, 89, of West Hartford and St. Croix passed away peacefully on March 23.

Sam was born in Hartford, the youngest of three sons of the late Gertrude and Herman Paskowitz. He is predeceased by his brothers Fred (Estelle) and Harold (Lillian) Paskowitz. He graduated from Weaver High School and taught himself to play at least four instruments. His first gigs at age 16, were dances for returning WW2 veterans recovering from severe injuries. As a partner of Al Jarvis Orchestras, he was the master of ceremonies and purveyor of smiles and handshakes for thousands of events throughout central Connecticut. In 2012 he was honored by the Rotary Club’s highest and most important “Paul Harris Award” for his community service: “For 30 years the gifted saxophonist and his musicians have made visits, in December, to 50 facilities such as area hospitals, nursing homes, schools, libraries and Sisters of St. Joseph Convent to uplift and brighten patient’s lives.” He continued this to the age of 88! Sam and Shirley were coming up on their 64th wedding anniversary. Sam was blessed with a full life and a peaceful passing. He left a glimmering trail of warm personal and musical memories.

Sam is survived by his loving wife of 64 years Shirley Pasco of West Hartford, by his brother and sister-in-law Bob and Lynne Miller, by his daughters Amy Pasco and Mindy Pasco-