Samuel Nelson Cousino

Born in Erie, Michigan on December 16, 1948 to Alton and Genevieve Cousino, Sam and his four siblings spent their youth helping to run the family farming business. He met his wife of 53 years, Karen, in driver’s education at the age of 15 and together they embarked on a lifelong adventure.

He enlisted in the Air Force after high school and was stationed in the Philippines for two years. Karen, refusing to send her new husband across the world alone, applied for a student visa and joined him overseas.

After the Air Force they settled outside of Philadelphia and Sam began a career with Keystone Foods, a McDonald’s supplier and the company known for inventing the frozen hamburger and Chicken McNugget. He traveled the world in his roles managing purchasing, distribution and product development. He later became a McDonald’s owner/operator, where he took pride in running the fastest and most friendly drive-thrus in the region. During his time with McDonald’s, he was actively involved in supporting the schools and emergency services in his communities and each year chaired various committees for the McDonald’s LPGA Championship.

Sam and Karen retired to a home on the golf course at Grand Haven in Palm Coast, Florida where they spent the last 18 years playing every day. Sam would often be heard saying, “I love my life!”

Never one to meet a stranger, Sam was a brilliant light that filled every room with his special brand of humor, kindness and cheer.

He adored his family and took great pride in building a life full of magical and diverse experiences for them. He never missed a Cub Scout camp out, dance recital or youth sporting event and, with Karen, ensured each birthday and holiday was celebrated with great fanfare. As his children grew, he encouraged and supported their every dream and created a safe haven for them to always return.

His lifelong passion for golf led him to dear friends and to exploits – and courses – around the globe. He delighted in the post-round ritual of scotch, cigars and lively debate almost as much as the game itself, and was always grateful for the camaraderie and deep bonds that formed on the country club patio. His favorite post-retirement job was that of “Commish” of his Saturday group.

Farming remained in his veins and he was most at peace when driving his John Deere mower or tinkering in his yard. He cherished his return visits to the family farm, reminiscing for hours with his mom and siblings at the kitchen table. In between visits, he looked forward to FaceTiming with his tech savvy 102-year-old mother every Sunday.

Perhaps his most anticipated and joyous role was that of Papa to his five grandchildren and step-grandchildren, for whom he would do almost anything for a belly laugh or a smile.

He’s survived by his beloved wife, Karen; daughter, Missy and her husband, Jeff; son, Brian and his fiancée, Rhiannon; granddaughter, Emma; grandson and namesake, Sam; and step-grandchildren, Abby, Bailey and Bryce. He’s also survived by his mother, Genevieve; siblings Phyllis, John, Frank and Fred; as well as nine nieces and nephews.

He’s preceded in death by his father, Alton; parents-in-law, Jack and Alice; brother-in-law, Bill; and sister-in-law, Lana.

Despite the enormous difficulty of the last three years, Sam treasured every moment with his family and friends and never stopped living the guiding principles he long instilled in his children – be kind to everyone, always; fight hard for what you believe in; and never, ever, ever give up. He will be profoundly missed.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a cause and organization very dear to Sam’s heart.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.craigflaglerpalms.com for the Cousino family.