July 3, 1930 – April 7, 2026

Irvin Samuel Bazzanella, 95, passed away on April 7, 2026, at Martha Jefferson Hospital in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Born the fifth child of immigrants Max and Emma Bazzanella of Tyrol, Italy, Sam was taught from a very young age to never say the words “I can’t.” As a result, he became the epitome of hard work and determination. He worked on the family farm and in the Bazzanella fur tannery alongside his siblings before spending two years at Randolph-Macon College. He was then drafted into the Korean War.

Sam married the love of his life, Betty Jean, upon returning from service overseas in 1956. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised three daughters: Sandra, Ginger, and Kristy.

An entrepreneur at heart, Sam had a remarkable gift for creating great things from very little. Throughout his life, he remained devoted to fulfilling his mother’s dying wish—to preserve and maintain the family farm. He worked tirelessly to uphold that legacy while also operating his business, Bazzanella Construction. Sam also helped bring his wife’s dream of a campground on the lake to life.

In his spare time, Sam loved listening to bluegrass music and played both the fiddle and mandolin. He was his wife’s biggest fan, and traveled to every show with her bluegrass band, New Girls Nite Out. When at home, Sam found joy in nature and was an avid turkey hunter. Few things thrilled him more than spotting a flock of turkeys in the field or hearing them gobble.

Sam had a remarkable memory and a gift for storytelling, often entertaining visitors and family for hours. He was a consummate reader who carried a wealth of knowledge and was always willing to lend a helping hand. He will be deeply missed.

Sam is survived by his beloved wife, Betty Jean; his daughters, Sandra, Ginger, and Kristy Bazzanella; and his grandchildren, Samuel Kelley, Russell Childs, and Harrison Childs.

A visitation will be held at 1:00 PM on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at Woodward Funeral Home in Louisa, Virginia, and a funeral service at 2:00 PM. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Cemetery.