ELLENBURG
– Samuel Joseph Trombley
, 79, of Ellenburg, NY, entered "Eternal Rest" on Saturday, December 17, 2016, at the University of Vermont Health Network, Champlain Valley Physician's Hospital, after a battle of lung cancer.
He was born March 12, 1937, in Ellenburg, the son of the late Irene LaClair and Samuel Trombley. Sam attended Ellenburg Elementary school, as a French-speaking Kindergartener, and continued to use his French language throughout his years in business. Samuel married Marie LaValley on August 4, 1956, and were married for 58 years, and raised six children.
Sam is predeceased by his wife, Marie, his parents Samuel & Irene Trombley, and his three sisters: Mildred Barcomb, Raida Chaput, and Louva Jones.
Survivors also include two sons: Samuel A. Trombley of Champlain, NY; Christopher K. Trombley and his companion, Lynne Moreno of Marlborough, MA; four daughters: Wanda A. Bushey and her husband Randy of Hudson, NH; Bonnie T. Acosta and her husband Dr. Edwin Acosta of Elmira, NY; Lynne M. Swedick and her husband Paul of Albany, NY; and Katrina M. Stone and her husband Jamie of Ellenburg Depot, NY; three sisters, Eunice Bell of Plattsburgh, Eleanor Steady of Port Orange, FL and Marguerite Forrett of Plattsburgh; one brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Richard and Mary Anne LaValley; one sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Eileen and Roger Blow, one sister-in-law, Doris LaValley. Sam's thirteen grandchildren are: Nolan Reid, Kirsten Gleason, Gregory Bushey, Sandra McKay-Bushey, Emily Panteleakis, Hannah Bushey, Ashley Acosta, Evin Acosta, Schuyler Acosta, Christian Trombley, Logan Swedick, Landon Stone and Madison Stone. Sam's six great-grandchildren are: Keegan Gleason, Ryan Gleason, Adrian Estebanez, Ethan Estebanez, Leila Bushey, and Elizabeth Bush. Sam also is survived by several nieces, nephews, political constituents, campers, and many friends.
Samuel's Spiritual/Religious Life Included: Eucharistic Minister, Lector, Honorary Knights of Columbus (Grand Knight, District Deputy, & long-time member), was a very strong advocate for the Right to Life, and did the yearly March for Life. Sam also did construction work on St. Edmund's Church & Hall, put in the handicapped lift, etc.
Sam's Professional Life: He ran for Chairman of the Young Republican Committee at the age of 20! He was also the Town Supervisor for Ellenburg. Sam served as a Director of Off Track Betting from 1977-1997. He served as Clinton County Legislator for 29 years (1983-2011). Sam was a devoted public servant for his constituents in Area 2. Sam was most proud of his efforts in bringing Senior Housing to this area. He was known "as the man who worked for his people." Sam's Pledge was "I will never let you down or sell you short." He also chaired the Adult Republican Committee for many years, attended two Presidential Inaugurations in Washington, D.C. with his wife Marie, attended two Donald Trump rallies, and had high hopes of attending the Trump Inauguration next month.
Sam was an accomplished businessman, carpenter, and machine operator. He was the owner of Trombley's Construction Company, built Ranch Side Park Campground, The Club House, Frosty Lounge Diner, his & Marie's home, Phil's Service Station, Rabideau's Funeral Home, Pole Light in Champlain, as well as many many homes, barns, & businesses. Some of his greatest construction accomplishments include the building of Lake Roxanne, Lake Lynne @ Ranch Side Park (the first fish ladder in NYS), Border Patrol Customs building, and the barns at the Malone Fairground, Chateauguay Fire Department building, and many many more! Sam also worked as an Engineer for The Power Authority of the State of New York Substation, UHL, Hall & Rich in Burke, NY. They were a hydroelectric power & water resources company out of Boston, MA.
Sam's Family Life: He was a Devoted Husband, Adored Father, Loving Grandfather and Great-grandfather! HE WILL BE GREATLY MISSED BY ANYONE WHO KNEW HIM!
Sam's Gifts and Talents Continued: He enjoyed playing the guitar and banjo! Sam loved singing and dancing! He was the best auctioneer in the area and could call a square dance that made everyone want to join in! He loved horses and horse racing. Sam even drove a race car at Airborne Speedway!
In addition, Sam always found the time to volunteer in many church, business, political, and community organizations. He endured the test of time and was admired by family and friends for his faith, his hard work ethic, and his many accomplishments throughout his life. Sam will always be remembered for his big smile, handshake, and a kind word.
There will be no public calling hours. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, December 21st, at St. Edmund's Catholic Church in Ellenburg, NY. Sam's nephew, The Most Reverend Bishop Terry LaValley, & Fr. Tom Higman will officiate over the Mass as well as other local clergy. Sam would appreciate
donations made in his memory to the Ellenburg Depot Fire and Rescue, any Veteran's Association, or St. Edmund's Church. Arrangements are in the care of the Rabideau Funeral Home at 5614 Route 11 in Ellenburg, NY. (518) 594-3111