Obituary: Angelo J. Sarkees

Angelo J. Sarkees, 76, of Lewiston, passed away on June 22, 2024, at Niagara Hospice House in Lockport. Born in Niagara Falls, he was the son of the late Cezar J. and Rose M. (Morreale) Sarkees.

Andy, as he was affectionately known, was a graduate of Bishop Duffy High School, and earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Niagara University and later his Master’s Degree in chemical engineering from the University at Buffalo. In 1993, he married Linda C. (Grochala) Sarkees at Sacred Heart Church. Ange was employed for 30 years as a water engineer with the D.E.C. in Buffalo, until his retirement. 

His true passion and mission in life was giving back. Earning the title of “The Can Man,” Angelo founded Deposits For Food, where he collected cans and bottles, raising over $100,000 for Community Missions, as well as Heart, Love & Soul and the Ransomville and Wilson Food Pantry. He was awarded the 2023 Philanthropist of the Year award by the Association of Fundraising. Angelo was also the former president of the board of directors for the Niagara Civic Ballet for several years.

In his spare time, Andy enjoyed collecting and antiquing with his wife, loved watching sports, listening to music, and playing golf. Above all else, he was dedicated to his family – especially helping his aunts and uncles and spending time with his grandchildren.

In addition to his wife of 30 years, Angelo is survived by his daughter, Jennifer (Peter Eisenhauer) Sarkees; his stepdaughters: Tina (Michael) Mahowish and Carrie (Jesse Goldberg) Chilberg; his grandchildren: Miranda, Logan, Sebastian, Novy, Luna and Ezra; his siblings: Rosemary (Fredric) Samulski, Frank (Joanne) Sarkees, Joseph (Melanie) Sarkees and Christina Sarkees (Barbara Weber); as well as several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his twin brother, Barber (late Linda Kay) Sarkees.

Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. Sunday, June 30, at M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls. Angelo’s interment and committal prayers will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, July 1, at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, 3806 Pine Ave., Niagara Falls.

Flowers are graciously declined.

Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.