Samuel “Sam” “Rezz” Rogers Rescinito, 69, of Galesburg, passed away peacefully at 2:33 a.m. on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at Carle Health Methodist Hospital in Peoria, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born on April 2, 1957, in Galesburg, Sam was the son of Joe and Joan “Jody” (Rogers) Rescinito. A proud Galesburg native, he graduated from Galesburg High School in 1975 and later attended Carl Sandburg College. Throughout his life, Galesburg remained home; a place where he built lifelong friendships, raised a family, and created countless memories.
Sam first married Kitlyn Archibald, and together they welcomed two children, Kelby and Alyssa. Later in life, he found love with his perfect partner Cynthia “Cindy” K. (Tutor) Painter. The two were married on July 28, 2012, in Galesburg and shared a life filled with laughter, love, family gatherings, and treasured friendships. Together, they created a home where everyone felt welcome and where good stories, good company, and plenty of laughter were always guaranteed.
Left to honor and cherish his memory are his loving wife, Cindy of Galesburg; his children, Mandy Painter of Alexis, Josh Painter of Cameron, Leah Painter of Galesburg, Heather (Nate) Barker of Galesburg, Kelby (Madison) Rescinito of Quincy, and Alyssa Rescinito (fiancé Max Spencer) of Edwards; and his beloved grandchildren, Brett, Addy, Colten, Landon, Sammy, JD, Sophia, Madyson, Hudson, and Josslyn, who brought him endless pride and joy. He is also survived by his sister, Rachel, along with several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.
For more than 34 years, Sam worked in food sales, beginning his career in 1980 and retiring on October 31, 2014. During those years, he worked for IFP, Monarch Sara Lee, JP Food Service, Hawkeye Food Service, and US Foods. While he was dedicated to his profession, it was the relationships he built along the way that meant the most to him. With his outgoing personality, friendly nature, and ability to strike up a conversation with anyone, Sam formed friendships wherever life took him.
Sports played a significant role throughout Sam’s life. As a young man, he could often be found on the baseball field, golf course, or wallyball court, enjoying both the competition and the camaraderie. Tuesday night golf league at Oak Run was one of his favorite traditions, and few things made him happier than gathering with friends for a round of cards, spending time in his garage, or relaxing around the pool. He was a loyal fan through and through, cheering passionately for the St. Louis Cardinals, the Chicago Bears, and his beloved Fighting Illini.
Yet, above all else, Sam’s greatest joy was his family. He loved attending sporting events, celebrating milestones, sharing stories, and simply spending time with the people he loved most. Whether he was offering encouragement from the sidelines, teasing someone with his quick wit, or making a room erupt in laughter, Sam had a special gift for bringing people together. His warm smile, generous heart, easygoing spirit, and genuine kindness left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Sam was raised in the Catholic faith, which helped shape the values of kindness, compassion, and family that he carried throughout his life. In his younger years, he attended Corpus Christi Catholic Church and remained grounded in the faith and traditions that were important to him.
Though his family and friends will miss him deeply, they take comfort in the countless memories he leaves behind and the laughter, friendship, and love he shared so freely throughout his life. His legacy will live on in the stories told around card tables, on golf courses, at family gatherings, and in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
A Celebration of Sam’s Life will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus. Private family burial will be held at Abingdon Cemetery.
Memorials may be made in Sam’s name to the INI-MS Board. Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel are assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.h-p-w.com
