Samuel "Sambo" Joseph Geonetta

Samuel “Sambo” Joseph Geonetta born on May 9, 1963 in Denver, CO, died peacefully at home on November 9, 2023 in Pueblo, CO. He is survived by his daughter Misty Geonetta, brothers Tony (Kindra) Geonetta and John Geonetta, sister Christina (Kent) Ingram, special friend and longtime companion of 20 years Barbara Mehno, daughter Julianne Mehno, grandson Ben, best friends Dian Fisher Bridges, John Gribble, and best friend/cousin Wesley (Terrie) Schoby. Proceeded in death by father Samuel A. Geonetta, mother Lavina “Penny” Perryman, and grandfather Samuel “Gramps” Geonetta, grandmother Esther Geonetta, as well as the many furry friends he had rescued and adopted over the years. A true student of life, Sam marched to the beat of his own drummer and was one of a kind. Raised in Pueblo, CO, he grew up riding dirt bikes and participated in competitions that won him many trophies. His love for bikes included motorcycles. He loved working on them, building them, and riding them, especially with friends. He was forever curious and highly intelligent, always taking the time to educate himself on history, politics, spirituality, nature, and the Universe. An avid watcher of Jeopardy!, he always knew all the answers. He lived in Northern California when he was in his twenties and loved the west coast, making multiple trips out there throughout his life, many times to see his daughter, Misty. He loved animals of all kinds and was an avid supporter of “Adopt Don’t Shop” and rescued/adopted all the dogs and cats he could, proudly giving them the best life a furry friend could ask for. He loved to take his dogs to the Res and the Dog Park, where he was a favorite among locals to chat with. Music was an important part of his life and rocking out was his favorite thing to do! He loved to do karaoke and never turned down the chance to sing his favorite songs to an audience. He was an excellent host, always throwing the best parties and happy hours—he loved to entertain and bring people together. He made the best sloppy Joe’s and barbecue sauce! Being a Paw to his grandson Ben was one of the greatest joys in Sam’s life and he took every opportunity he could to bond, teach, and spend quality time with him. Sam was a huge Raiders fan and in good spirit, loved to razz Bronco fans, all in good fun. He was the kind of person who could do that and you loved him more for it. He was gregarious, charismatic, funny, warm, and sensitive. Being a truly unique individual, the void he leaves in our hearts is immense. He will be missed forever by anyone who knew him. At his request, he was cremated and his ashes will be scattered in the spring to his favorite song, “Dust in the Wind” by Kansas. A celebration of life will be held for his birthday this May. His birthday was his favorite time to party, so party we shall in May! Stay tuned on his Facebook page for details. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to PAWS Pueblo Animal Shelter.

Samuel "Sambo" Joseph Geonetta

May 9, 1963 - November 9, 2023