Salvatore James Faggiano

Salvatore J. “Sam” Faggiano passed away unexpectedly, in Spokane, Washington, on Tuesday March 14th surrounded by his family and friends.

Sam, the eldest of nine children, was born in Rochester, N.Y.  on April 18, 1957 to Sandra (Sulli) and Charles Faggiano. Sam was a devoted and loving father to his three children Charles “Chas” Faggiano (Ryan), Chelsey Faggiano (Vincent Keener), Chandler Faggiano (Josh Allen), granddaughter Devine Keener and a loving, caring life partner to Terri Pfister who has a daughter Dakota. Sam also leaves behind seven brothers and sisters; Charles Faggiano (Christine Binns), Mary Louise Stevens (Rick), Michael Faggiano (Fetia), Steven Faggiano, Michelle Penna (Scott Diehl), Patricia LaRocca (Scott) and Robert Faggiano (Sheri), 18 nieces and nephews as well as several cousins and great nieces and nephews. Sam was preceded in death by his brother Paul Faggiano who passed away in 2014.

Growing up in Henrietta, New York, Sam was always hunting, fishing and camping with family and lifelong childhood friends. He attended Rush-Henrietta High School and graduated with honors before enrolling at the State University of New York College at Oswego, New York. It was during a university political science class that Sam decided to become a lawyer.

Sam graduated from SUNY Oswego with a degree in Political Science, married Kerry (Zimmer) and moved to Spokane to attend Gonzaga University School of Law, graduating in 1984. Sam and Kerry later divorced.

As a respected attorney, Sam began his career in public service with the Spokane County Prosecutor’s office. He then joined the Spokane City Attorney’s office and became City Prosecutor 1996-2001. Sam advanced to the civil division of the City Attorney’s office in 2001, ultimately leading the litigation team and advising the Spokane Fire Department, Municipal Court, Risk Management, Prosecutor’s office and many others.

Always giving back, Sam was active in the community, coaching his children’s sports teams, helping at school functions from kindergarten through college, volunteering for events such as Bloomsday, and as an active member of the Spokane Exchange Club, serving as President twice in 2015 and 2017.

He held many titles during his lifetime, but Sam’s favorite role was father to Chas, Chelsey, and Chandler and grandfather to Devine. He was always there for his children, helping them through life’s ups and downs and available at any hour of the day.

For the past 17 years, Sam was an adoring and reliable partner to Terri, and father figure to Dakota, providing stability, comfort, and humor. They created a memorable life together that consisted of exploring the great outdoors, traveling, wine tasting, attending Gonzaga Basketball games and bonding with their two beloved dogs.

While he left us much too soon, he will be long remembered for his endearing smile, quick wit and willingness to help others. Sam’s gentle nature, contagious laugh and kindness will be greatly missed by many.

A Celebration of Sam’s life will be held on Friday, April 14th from 1-3 p.m. on the 3rd floor of the Downtown Spokane Public Library (906 West Main Ave.)

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