Samuel J. Maggio, age 75, a resident of Wheaton, passed away on Sunday, October 24, 2021. He was born August 6, 1946 in Elmhurst to Joseph & Elisa Maggio.

Sam served in the US Army during the Vietnam War (1967-68) and was involved in the Tet counteroffensive. He was awarded two Purple Heart citations during his military service. The first was awarded for his actions on May 1, 1968 and the second on May 16, 1968. The latter of which he nearly lost his life and was transported to Japan for care where his recuperation took five months.

He graduated with a bachelor of science from Illinois Institute of Technology on the GI Bill.  He had a lifelong interest in Zoology and Anthropology. He was active in several veterans organizations and was a faithful fund raiser. He started his own Purple Heart Chapter. The funds raised in the Chapter were given to The Midwest Homeless Shelter & Fischer House at Hines VA Hospital.

Sam had a lively intellect with many and varied interests. He played guitar and was a gifted singer.  He could mimic many popular artists, including some female voices. Sam was a sociable guy and enjoyed many friendships over the years. He was the ultimate home handyman and could fix nearly anything.

He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Mary; his children Anna Maggio & Nicholas (Ashley) Maggio; and his sister Rosalie Davis.

He was preceded in death by his brothers Andrew & Matthew Maggio.

A visitation will be held Thursday, October 28, 2021, from 3-7pm with a funeral service to follow at 7:00pm at Hultgren Funeral Home, 304 N. Main St., Wheaton, Illinois. Interment with Military Honors will be held at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois on Friday, October 29, 2021 at 2:00 p.m.

Memorial gifts may be directed to Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans , 433 S. Carlton Ave., Wheaton, IL. 60187.