Sam Saligram Maharaj

Saligram "Sam" Maharaj was born on May 1, 1942 in Trinidad & Tobago. He passed away on June 12, 2024 at 82 years old after a sudden decline in his health due to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). 

Sam will be most remembered for the determination, resilience and grit he displayed throughout his life. In his early 20s he migrated from Trinidad & Tobago to the United States with the goal of creating a better life for himself and his family. His family remembers stories he shared with them of the struggles he experienced in those early days - having to sleep in train station for a night, switching between numerous apartments in Brooklyn, learning how to be an ironworker during the cold winter months, and pushing the boundaries to earn job certifications to improve his career opportunities. This drive allowed Sam to purchase his first home - a brownstone in Sunset Park, Brooklyn - where his family eventually relocated to from Trinidad and the home where his youngest son was born. His determination paved the way to the United States for many in the Maharaj family.  Sam was proud to be an American!  He often listened to and proudly sang "God Bless the USA - I'm Proud to be an American."

Perhaps these experiences are why Sam often sang another of his favorite songs, Bridge Over Troubled Water by Simon & Garfunkel - if anyone knew the meaning of "Sail on, silver girl, sail on by, Your time has come to shine, All your dreams are on their way," it was Sam. He exemplified resilience, adaptability and hard work during his life to achieve the dreams he envisioned for himself. And throughout that journey, little did he know that he'd also pass those traits onto his children and grandchildren. 

As Sam experienced more stability later in his life, he spent most of his time outdoors and staying active. He loved spending time in the Catskill Mountains, gardening, fishing, fixing his backyards, befriending neighbors, and helping his family with home improvements. He also spent time listening to music from artists such as Hank Williams, Simon and Garfunkel, and Elvis to even your occasional Dr. Hook and many more. His family has many memories of him playing music on his record player while humming on his harmonica. Sam also enjoyed getting to spend time with his four grandchildren and watching them grow up. 

Sam was a devoted husband to Elizabeth "Clara" Maharaj for 55 years. He was one of six siblings, including Rookmin, Raj, Bhagwatt, Seepersad and Chan. He is survived by his brother Chan Maharaj; sons Rob and Rishi Maharaj; daughter Neela Maharaj-Pollard; grandchildren Dev Bissram and Veena Levin, and Gavin and Dylan Maharaj; daughter-in-laws Jolanta Maharaj and Jennifer Maharaj; son-in-law Andy Pollard and great-grandson Ashton Levin. 

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