Joseph M. Samela

Joseph Michael Samela Jr. (1952 - 2026)

● Pepe

● Joe

● Mr Samela

● Daddy

● Big Dibs

Joseph Michael Samela Jr, 74, of Hamden, CT died at home after a long illness on September 4, 2026.

He was born in Waterbury, CT on January 12, 1952 to his parents, Joseph Sr and Victoria (née Garry). Affectionately called Pepe (attributed to his ‘peppy’ nature and a nickname for Giuseppe), Joe shared a happy childhood with his sister, Rinda (McKenna) and many cousins, aunts, and uncles.

Joe enjoyed being a Boy Scout where he proudly earned the rank of Eagle Scout. He loved hiking at the Sleeping Giant State Park, fishing, and camping his way across the United States in his van. He also rode in the Connecticut Horse Guard. Joe always gravitated toward teaching and had been a woodworking teacher in the New Haven Public School District. Over summer vacations, he brought his children on many road trips to as far north as Niagara Falls and as far south as Washington DC.

Joe took great pride in maintaining his property and his ‘green carpet' lawn. He loved to rewatch his favorite movies like Jurassic Park and King Kong. Joe also enjoyed ginger ale, wavy potato chips and neapolitan ice cream - and don’t forget the Zeppole on St Joseph’s Day!

He is survived by his wife Nancy (née Poland) and their children Joseph III of Bristol, CT and Christina (m. Greg Robben) of Melrose, MA.

Services will be private. To send a condolence to his family please see his obituary at: www.beecherandbennett.com