David Allan Samu

On April 9, 1965, David Allan Samu was born in New Jersey to Julia and Joseph Samu. David grew up in Queens, New York, with his three siblings, Joe, Craig, and Deborah.

During his late teenage years David worked on tug boats at sea. His experiences on the water remained with him through the years. At the age of 26, he met his wife, Florencia Samu and married in 1991. In 1992, they welcomed his stepdaughter Kimberlee into the family, followed by their daughter Sharece in 1993. They had two more children, Cheyenne and Cherish, in the years that followed. They settled in Massapequa, Long Island, in 1997 and raised their family there.

David later became a part of the MTA family working as a bus operator for over 10 years. He met many people who he considered very close friends. We are certain many of them have an abundance of amusing stories that would keep us entertained for years to come.

In 2012, David took medical leave from MTA and was later diagnosed with Leukemia in 2017.  In the years that followed, he spent his time restoring his antique car collection to its former glory and taking them for rides while listening to rock and roll on the radio. David also enjoyed riding his motorcycle, playing pool and his new found hobby of carving. For those who have visited his home, you may have noticed one of his many skillfully crafted wooden plaque or figureheads in nearly every room. 

David made sure to spend as much time as he could with friends and family. He was a one-of-a-kind man living life on his own terms with a wild and infectious sense of humor. He was someone that showed you the lighter side of life. You'd just want to be around "Dave' all of the time enjoying his playful, witty nature.

He fought his battle with Leukemia like a warrior, determined and steadfast. Despite all he endured over the years, he always wore a smile and never (well hardly) complained. He fought bravely and fiercely almost to a fault, making it look easier than we all knew it to be. All who knew David can admit he was a straight shooter, loved people and appreciated everything around him living his life to fullest; the way he wanted when he wanted. His diagnosis never defined or set limits for him. He will always be our inspiration.

David passed on May 4th, 2021 surrounded by his dear friend Joe and family. He leaves behind his wife Florencia, his step-daughter Kimberlee; his three daughters Sharece, Cheyenne and Cherish; his granddaughters Melody (Mel), Zoey (Kazo) and Logan (Logie), his grandson Andre; his Aunt Judith; siblings Joe, Craig and Deborah; his niece and nephews Jenna, Delfina,  Daniel Christopher, and Jason, along with many dear friends. We all will miss him dearly.

He lived his life by this excerpt from a poem written by Tecumseh 

"So live your life that the fear of death can never enter your heart.

Trouble no one about their religion; respect others in their view, and demand that they respect yours.

Love your life, perfect your life, beautify all things in your life.

Seek to make your life long and its purpose in the service of your people.

When it comes your time to die, be not like those whose hearts are filled with the fear of death, so that when their time comes they weep and pray for a little more time to live their lives over again in a different way.

Sing your death song and die like a hero going home."