Savino “Sam” Bona, 93, of Warren, PA., passed away on Tuesday, July 21, 2020 at the Rouse Home, Youngsville, PA., where he had resided since May 6, 2020, after suffering a massive stroke at his home. Sam was born April 18, 1927 in Kersey, PA to the late Joseph and Theresa Mussoi Bona, second youngest of 7 brothers and 1 sister. Joseph died when Sam was in the 8th grade. As a result, Sam was forced to quit school and go to work in the coal mines, later buying a coal truck and hauling for the Elliott Company. Sam also served in the Air Force at the end of WWII. On July 4, 1950, Sam married Annarella Marino of Johnsonburg, PA and moved to Ridgway, PA., where he purchased the Ridgway Grill. Sam and Annarella ran the Grill until 1963, when they sold it and relocated to Warren, PA., buying Oakview Tavern. Sam and Annarella ran the Oakview Tavern until 1995, when Sam’s heart bypass surgery forced him to close the Tavern. For many years, The Oakview Tavern was “the” place to go in Warren for a fun night out. Sam was the consummate host who never forgot a face, a name, or a favorite drink. Throughout the years, Warren residents enjoyed many special events at the Oakview, including everything from wedding receptions to bowling banquets.
Sam is survived by his wife, Annarella, with whom he celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary on July 4, 2020, as well as by his son, Tony Bona (Marilyn) of Dallas, TX., and 4 grandchildren, Amanda White (Benjamin) of Austin, TX., Jonathan Bona of Coppell, TX., Katherine Wilke (Devin) of San Antonio, TX and Charles VerMilyea of Melbourne, FL. 4 great grandchildren, Caroline, Connor and Cole White, Ryan Bona.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by 2 children, Gary and Kim, his 7 brothers and 1 sister.
Friends may call at Holy Redeemer R.C. Church, 11 Russell Street, Warren, PA., on Wednesday, July 29, 2020 from 10:00 to 11:00 A.M. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 A.M. with Fr. Stephen Schreiber, Pastor, officiating. Interment will be in St. Boniface Cemetery in Kersey, PA. Those wishing to submit e-mail condolences may be sent by visiting www.lewisfuneralhomeinc.com The Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc. has been entrusted with funeral arrangements.
So sorry for your loss Rella and Charles, Sam was one of the best and most honorable men I ever knew . I am thankful for his employ during my teenage years he instilled a work ethic in me that never went away . I wish I could be there Wednesday and am sorry I cant make it . God bless yall .
Such fond memories of cousin Savino. RIP. Many blessings to Annarella. I loved watching them slide across the room dancing like no one was watching entwined in each other’s arms.
So sorry for your loss. I saw this on Facebook so I let Mom know. Mom has tried to call his son Tony but does not have a good number.
Our deepest sympathy on the passing of Sam. Larry and I will never forget the wonderful times we had with your family. Especially getting engaged at Oakview!
I met Sam on my 4th day in Warren. He became my landlord for a number of years. He will surely be missed. My sincere sympathies.
Barb and I extend our deepest sympathy to all of you. Sam has always had a special place in my heart and was a great man.
We spent a good many nights there and always enjoyed ourselves, our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
To: Rella & family
My condolences to you RELLA, and your family, for your great loss of one so precious. Sam was my very special friend for so many years of my early life. A great friend, a mentor, providing guidance, advice and words of wisdom that did not fall on a closed mind. You have truly been fortunate to have shared your life together for 70 years. I’ll cherish the memories, especially the OAKVIEW experiences.
Rella and Family…
Our condolences to you and the family in the recent loss of Sam. As numerous others, I have many pleasant memories of Sam at Oak View.
Again, condolences…
Chuck & Susana Moylan
My condolences to the family . I will miss him so but I will cherish so many great memories.
We are so sorry for your loss and pray that God will bring you comfort through fond memories of your loved one. Sincerely
Rella and Family, I extend my deep sympathy to you.
Sam was a great man, and I am glad I was able to help him with projects at the Tavern. I always enjoyed visiting him and your family. I will never forget The Oakview and all the fun times there.
May the Peace of God comfort you now and in the future.
Chuck Barnes
So sorry to hear of Sam’s passing. We spent many good nights at the Tavern when we were young. My prayers are with you for his loss.
I just learned that Sam passed away recently. My condolences to his family. Sam’s warm personality and gracious service at the OakView were unparalleled. He could have written the lyrics for the theme song from Cheers. For many years it was our go to place. I most remember those cold winter nights when he would stoke the fire with wood scraps from the Akley baseball bat factory.
Beautiful times. May you Rest In Peace.
Jim and Terri Munch
Sam was a wonderful man-I remember Sam from the Oakview tavern- Vicki and I had our rehearsal dinner there for our wedding-Great dinner.Thoughts and prayers go out to the family