John Salerno

September 20, 1938 – October 5,2025

John Salerno, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with late-stage Parkinson’s disease. He was 87 years old.

Born on September 20, 1938, John lived a life defined by faith, integrity, and love. Married to the love of his life for 64 years, their marriage was a beautiful example of unwavering devotion and shared purpose. Together, they built a family rooted in faith, laughter, and enduring affection.

A devout Catholic, John’s faith was his foundation. His faith, family, and friends meant everything to him, and he faced each joy and hardship with gratitude and grace.

Gifted both intellectually and athletically, John played rookie baseball with the Brooklyn Dodgers at just 17 years old. Though offered the opportunity to sign with a chance to make the majors, he chose instead to pursue higher education—accepting one of the 18 full college scholarships he had earned. It was a decision that reflected his discipline, foresight, and belief in the value of learning.

He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Fordham University, where he developed the sharp mind and curiosity that guided his many future achievements.

A proficient chess player throughout his life, John served as Second Chair for Fordham University’s chess team and later as First Chair while serving in the Marines. The highlight of his chess career came when he played Russian champion Samuel Reshevsky. Though Reshevsky offered him a draw, John declined—choosing to play the game through. He ultimately lost the match but relished the experience, treasuring it as one of his proudest memories.

A proud United States Marine Corps Communications and Cryptography Officer, John served his country with honor and distinction, including during the tense days of the Cuban Missile Crisis. Working closely with military leadership aboard battleships, he contributed to critical evaluations of potential outcomes should the nations have gone to war—an experience that demanded precision, courage, and clarity of thought. The discipline and sense of duty he carried from that time stayed with him throughout his life.

Over the next four decades, John built a remarkable career as an executive and serial entrepreneur. His natural leadership, insight, and integrity earned him the respect of colleagues and friends alike. He was known not only for his professional success, but for his generosity, his fairness, and his ability to inspire others through quiet strength and conviction.

Beyond his accomplishments, John will be remembered for his warmth, humor, and unforgettable storytelling. He could light up a room with his presence—sharing tales filled with wit, wisdom, and laughter. His humor was effortless, his spirit magnetic, and his joy for life contagious.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Angela, their daughter Elisa and son-in-law Muhammad, sons John and fiancée Alexandria, and Dean and daughter-in-law Patricia, his sister Concetta and brother- in-law Robert as well as his loving grandchildren, nieces and nephews who brought him great pride and joy.

He leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, laughter, and perseverance — a life well lived and deeply cherished by all who knew him.