Remembering Sam Falzone

Over the years, I’ve met many wonderful people through Camp Good Days—people whose kindness, generosity, and service have left a lasting impact on our organization. One of those people was my dear friend, Sam Falzone.

Sam was practically with us from the very beginning and quickly became part of the Camp Good Days family. No matter what needed to be done, Sam was always there—dependable, thoughtful, and ready to help however he could.

Back when we moved our camping program from the Adirondack Mountains to Canandaigua, we suddenly found ourselves needing to provide our own kitchen staff, which was uncharted territory for us at the time. Sam, who was a civilian employee with the Army Reserve, used his knowledge and connections to help. He was the one who guided me in the right direction, helping to connect me with the 98th Division, which had a cooking unit. With the help of Congressman Frank Horton and General Rappl, that cooking unit came to Camp Good Days for two weeks each summer, until the 98th Division cut back on the unit, to prepare meals for our campers, volunteers, and staff. It made a tremendous difference in our ability to serve those who came to Camp, and it wouldn’t have been possible without Sam.

That’s who Sam was though. Whenever there was a need, he found a way to meet it. He never looked for recognition or credit—he simply cared about people and wanted to make things better wherever he could.

I’ll never forget when the war in Iraq began. It was a frightening time for everyone, especially those with loved ones serving overseas. With 24-hour news coverage, the images of war were everywhere, and parents worried about what their children might see while they were at work. Many were afraid to leave their kids home alone, knowing they could turn on the television and witness the devastation firsthand. I remember thinking that there had to be something we could do to help, so I talked to Sam, and together we created Operation Blue Skies.

The program was held at the Armory and offered free of charge to families with a parent or loved one deployed, giving the parent at home a place to bring their children while they went to work. It was a safe, welcoming space where kids could be with others who understood what they were going through, finding comfort, connection, and a little peace during a difficult time. Sam was there every day, helping to make sure everything ran smoothly and greeting families with the same kindness and warmth he brought to everything he did. He was one of those rare people who didn’t just talk about helping others—he lived it. He was dependable, humble, and caring, and he made a difference in ways that will never be forgotten.

I am deeply saddened by his passing and know that he will be truly missed. He was part of Camp Good Days for so many years and gave so much of himself to others. It’s difficult to imagine life without him, but there’s comfort in knowing he’s at peace, surrounded by so many from our Camp family who went before him. His presence and his friendship meant a great deal to me, and I’ll make sure we continue the work he believed in—creating good days and special times for those who need them most.