Salvatore J. Cioffi

Salvatore J. Cioffi peacefully passed this week after a valiant battle with illness. He was surrounded by his family and many friends. Salvatore was one of six children (Joseph, James, Anthony, Donald and Lucille) born in New York City to James and Irene Cioffi. He was a proud member of the Armed Forces, serving as an Army Corporal stationed in Germany. It is here he honed his skills for driving a tank which served him well navigating the streets of Manhattan!

Salvatore met the love of his life Anna on New Year’s Eve of 1951 marrying in 1954. After many years as city dwellers, Anna and Sal relocated to West Babylon, New York where they raised two daughters Elizabeth Sposito and Christine Mann. A most wonderful father, he encouraged them to be dedicated and confident people providing a safe, funny, joyful and warm home. He was also a most generous person known to have a quick wit or joke to make those around him laugh. He also considered his sons-in-law Ralph Sposito and Bruce Mann his own, welcoming them into his family with open arms.

Sal had a dedicated history and career at Grumman Aerospace working on many storied aircraft programs that launched our country into space along with many military programs.

After raising their family, Anna and Sal retired to Melbourne, Florida where they enjoyed a wonderful life surrounded by a group of treasured neighbors and friends. Sal learned to play golf in his 60’s finding a passion that fostered an amazing comradery with a group of friends who became his extended family.

What set Sal apart most was the love for his grandchildren Lauren (Sposito) Cassidy, Jesse Cassidy and Garrett Matthew Mann. He was the most wonderful grandparent, indulging and showering all of them with unconditional love like only a grandfather can. His family feels even more blessed that he was able to experience the laughter and joy of his first great grandchild, Madison Cassidy.

Anna and Sal recently celebrated 63 years of marriage last year.

Salvatore is survived by his wife; Anna, his daughters; Elizabeth Sposito and Christine Mann, sons-in-law; Ralph Sposito and Bruce Mann, grandchildren; Lauren (Sposito) Cassidy, Jesse Cassidy and Garrett Matthew Mann, and great granddaughter; Madison Cassidy. He is also survived by his brother; Donald Cioffi, sister; Lucille Fraas and sister-in-law; Catherine Carotenuto.

Sal’s family respectfully ask that in lieu of flowers donations be made to either Shriner’s Children’s Hospital or St. Jude's Children’s Hospital.