Sammy Patrenella Obituary, Death- We mourn the loss of our friend and neighbor Sammy Patrenella Sr., who passed away earlier this week at the age of 88, but we will always remember him with love and gratitude. Patrenella’s Italian Restaurant, owned by Sammy Patrenella, was a Houston institution, located on Jackson Hill a half block off Washington Avenue, and Sammy was a beloved figure in the city’s gastronomic community. His establishment epitomized the “mom and pop” sort of restaurant, serving up delicious food and friendly service at all times.
One look at the smiling faces of the regulars and newcomers alike would tell you that Sammy truly cared about his business and its patrons. In spite of the difficulties brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, he never wavered from the principles that had made Patrenella’s a beloved institution for so long. It served as a gathering spot for locals to share in one another’s company and the simple pleasures of life. One of Patrenella’s best qualities was the Corleone room, a cozy area perfect for intimate get-togethers, parties, and even the occasional game of cards.
Friends and family gathered here to share stories and make precious memories over the years, and the air was filled with their laughter. Besides being a successful businessman, Sammy Patrenella Sr. also had a gift for entertaining his audience with tales of his life. He had a flair for presenting the history of Washington Avenue and the complex tapestry of the Houston restaurant industry. As he ate lunch with friends and patrons at the Cadillac Bar, he told stories about his life, often including incidents involving gambling and the exciting city of Las Vegas.
Sammy’s tales were a monument to his extraordinary life and the adventures he had, providing a glimpse into a bygone period. Here, we honour the life of Sammy Patrenella Sr., who left an everlasting impression on our hearts and on this community, as we remember him. He will be greatly missed by everybody who knew him, and while funeral arrangements have not been made public, one thing is certain: he will be terribly missed.
Gather together in grief to celebrate Sammy’s life, the lasting impact of Patrenella’s Italian Restaurant, and the bonds of friendship he forged. The memories we tell and the love we feel for this extraordinary man who touched our lives in such a profound way will keep his smile and his spirit alive forever.
