Samuel Salomone

On Tuesday, November 29, 2022, Samuel Anthony Salomone, a beloved husband and father, passed away at the age of 79. Sam’s love for listening to and performing music have made him an amazing influence on so many lives. Everyone who met him, liked him, and those who knew him, loved him. He will be missed by all.

Sam was born December 20, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois to Carl and Mary Salomone. His love for music began as a child but working at a record shop at the age of 16, he was inspired by the local Chicago music scene to pursue music as a career and lifestyle. He attended Grandview College to study music theory and harmony. Sam has played music professionally since 1962. His first road experiences were tours with Del Shannon and also the Duprees. He bought his first Hammond B3 organ in 1965 and a music legend was born.

He settled down in Des Moines where he and his wife of 51 years, Linda Salomone have lived. He spent his life here in Iowa as a working musician playing with many local artists and bands. His musical abilities were infectious, and he played with his whole soul, losing himself in music.

He very proudly was honored with inductions into the Iowa Community Jazz Hall of Fame, Iowa Blues Hall of Fame, and Iowa Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. For many years he has spent Sundays with CJC Monthly Jam Sessions teaching and mentoring young students in music performance.

Sam’s hidden talent was his proficiency as a chef. Everyone loved his family recipes, his meatballs were unrivaled, and he made a mean gumbo. He was also an avid music collector of LPs, 45s, and CDs. He enjoyed sharing his extensive library with family and friends. In the 1990s he was very proud to share his collection and knowledge of music on several of his own radio programs.

He is survived by his wife Linda Salomone, daughter Angela Kennedy of Des Moines, his three grandchildren, and his sister Carla Rowland of Denver, Colorado.

In lieu of a funeral there will be a celebration of life jam session per his request held from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m., Sunday, December 11, 2022 at Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, 909 Robert D. Ray Dr., Des Moines, IA, 50309.

It is requested that no flowers be sent. Instead, please consider donating to one of the following organizations in Sam’s name:

The American Kidney Fund

Community Jazz Center Des Moines

Central Iowa Blues Society

Iowa Rock and Roll Music Association

KFMG FM Radio

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