Obituary of Salvatore "Sam" Ferro

Salvatore (Sam) Ferro, a beloved family man from Cortland, New York, peacefully passed away March 27, 2026 at the age of 96 surrounded by his loved ones. Many in the community fondly remember Sam and his family for their warm hospitality at the Terrace Restaurant, a cornerstone in Cortland from 1951 to 2002. For fifty-one years, Sam and his wife Joan, along with his sister Carmine and husband Louis, owned and operated the Terrace Restaurant. He was a graduate of St. Mary's Parochial School. Sam was born June 9, 1929 to Joseph and Antionetta DiPaula Ferro. He was predeceased in death by sister Carmine Puzo (Louis), sister-in-law, Melba Jones (Roland), brothers-in-law James Williams (Mary), Donald Williams (Lee), and infant grandson Andrew Baccaro. Sam is survived by his wife, Joan; their daughter, Margaret Baccaro (Angelo) of Cortland, New York; their sons, Joseph Ferro (Denise) of Syracuse, New York; and Donald Ferro (Paul Richards) of Orlando, Florida; as well as their grandchildren, Adam Corey of Kensington, Maryland; Jason Corey of New York, New York; Allesandra Ferro Bone (Steven) of Columbus, Georgia; and Liza Ferro (Ayden Wilber) of Cortland, New York. He is also survived by two great-grandchildren, Angelo Dentoni and Evan Bone. Through his food, Sam created more than meals—he created a gathering place where neighbors connected, milestones were celebrated, and everyone felt at home. He was renowned for his incredible steaks, rolls, and the often-copied but never matched carrot salad. Above all, Sam was devoted to his family and found his greatest joy at the table surrounded by those he loved. He was softspoken, quick with a smile, and found joy in making others laugh. Sam could always find perspective and humor during his battle with Alzheimer’s disease, and he was often heard reciting his favorite Italian phrase, “La vecchiaia è una carogna,” which translates to “Old age is a curse”—a phrase familiar to those who knew his humor and appreciated his sincerity. At Sam’s request, there will be a small family gathering. Those who choose to honor Sam in the form of a contribution in his memory please consider Shriners Children‘s, Braille Books for Blind Children or a charity of your choice. For those caregivers out there, we hope this poem will provide you the same comfort when it is most needed. Do not ask me to remember, Don’t try to make me understand. Let me rest and know you’re with me, Kiss my cheek and hold my hand.   I’m confused beyond your concept, I’m sad and sick and lost. All I know is that I need you, To be with me at all cost.   Do not lose your patience with me, Do not scold or curse or cry. I can’t help the way I’m acting, I can’t be different though I try.   Just remember that I need you, That the best of me is gone. Please don’t fail to stand beside me, Love me ‘til my life is gone.