Louis "Sam" Vittorie

Louis “Sam” Vittorie, 75, of South Bend, Indiana passed away on Wednesday, April 15, 2026 surrounded by his family. He was born on March 3, 1951 in Mishawaka, Indiana to the late Joseph and Zelda (Stafford) Vittorie. On November 9, 1974 at Christ the King Catholic Church, he married Roseann Niedbalski who survives. Sam is also survived by two daughters, Noell Marie Hostetler (Matthew) of South Bend, Indiana, Andrea Linn Smolinski (Jason) of South Bend, Indiana, two grandchildren, Ryne and Louis Smolinski, one sister, Judy Warren (Larry) of El Cajon, California, one brother, Joseph Vittorie (Michelle) of La Quinta, California and a brother and sister-in-law, Jack and Jamie Niedbalski of the Florida Keys. Sam was also preceded in death by one infant daughter, Nicole Vittorie and his father and mother-in-law, Raymond and Joan Niedbalski.

Sam had an exceptional sense of humor—he was the king of the “Dad Joke” and a master at making up his own words to songs on the radio, bringing laughter to those around him. He was incredibly laid back and easygoing, never having a bad word to say about anyone. Sam was gentle, kind, and remarkably patient. Those in his life truly enjoyed his company and felt at ease in his presence. He found his greatest joy in spending time with and caring for his beloved wife, whom he delighted in spoiling. He deeply cherished his grandsons and took great pleasure in playing games with them and supporting them in all of their many interests. When his daughters were in middle school, Sam devoted countless hours to coaching them and their peers in both basketball and softball, generously sharing his time, encouragement, and love of the game. For the past decade, he found a deep sense of fellowship and brotherhood through a men’s Bible study he attended every Thursday morning. Sam enjoyed fishing, watching Notre Dame sports, and relaxing with action movies and classic westerns. He dedicated over forty years to Martins Supermarkets in the meat department, a testament to his strong work ethic and commitment. Sam was the best husband, dad, papa, son, brother, and friend to ever bless this Earth. 

A visitation for Sam will be held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026 at the Kaniewski Funeral Home, 3545 N. Bendix Dr. South Bend, IN from 4:00 pm until 8:00 pm. A Radiant prayer service will be held at 7:30 pm in the funeral home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, April 23, 2026 at Christ the King Catholic Church, 52473 State Hwy 933, South Bend, IN at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family to help defray end of life and medical expenses.

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