Sam Wasserstrom

Sam Wasserstrom, 72, born in Chicago on July 24th of 1954, passed away suddenly at his home on July 29, 2026. Sam was the beloved husband of Roberta "Bobbie" Fabielli for 37 wonderful years.

He was the loving father of Austin M. (Jennifer) Smiley and Schina Stewart. He cherished and was cherished by his grandchildren Mia Stewart, A.J. and Parker Smiley.

He was the dear son of the late Dorothy (nee Sloop) and the late Abraham Wasserstrom. Sam is survived by his loving sister Florence (Paul) Hamer. He was preceded in death by his dearest brother the late Charles Wasserstrom.

He was the beloved brother-in-law of Robert (Patty O'Hara) Fabielli, Joanne (the late Roger Muelling) Martin and Mary Fabielli. Sam was a fond nephew, uncle, cousin and friend of many.

Sam was a special education teacher at Ridgewood High School in Norridge for many years. He was also the Wrestling Coach at Ridgewood, where he believed in giving every young athlete a chance, regardless of experience or ability. Known for mentoring wrestlers both on and off the mat, Sam’s guidance, encouragement, and unwavering belief in his athletes left a lasting impact on generations of students. In 2012 Sam was inducted into the Illinois Wrestling Coaches and Officials Association Hall of Fame. Sam also served as an IHSA official in baseball, softball and wrestling. He served as President of the Ridgewood Teachers Union for 17 years, during this time he sat on the Executive Board of Local 1274.

Sam’s favorite place was wherever his family was. He loved sporting events, movies, dinners, vacations, showing off his cooking skills, and reigning as the family’s “Jeopardy King.” In his later years, he was happiest floating in the pool in his Arizona home with his family close by.

Memorial Visitation Sunday August 09, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Cumberland Chapels 8300 W. Lawrence Ave., Norridge, IL. Services will conclude following Visitation. The interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to IWCOA(Illinois Wrestling Coaches and Officials Association) at iwcoa.app.neoncrm.com/forms/donate. This organization supports, promotes, and advances the sport of wrestling across Illinois by organizing major tournaments, hosting training clinics, and recognizing community achievements.