Salvatore Joseph Giardina

Salvatore Joseph Giardina II, known to all as “Chip,” passed away peacefully on March 10, 2025, in Lakewood Ranch, Florida, at the age of 81. Born on July 28, 1943, in Baltimore, Maryland, to the late Nancy Veronica (DiNardo) Giardina and Angelo Vincent Giardina, Chip lived a life full of passion, resilience, and an unwavering devotion to family and community.

A proud alumnus of McDonogh School, Chip graduated in 1961 as co-captain of the varsity lacrosse team and quarterback of the varsity football team. He went on to attend Johns Hopkins University, where he was an All-American attackman and captain of the lacrosse team. He later served his country in the National Guard during the Vietnam War before beginning his professional career. In 1967, he returned to McDonogh to teach algebra and serve as a coach and dorm parent. He later became Athletic Director in 1974, playing a pivotal role in McDonogh’s transition to coeducation by establishing the school’s first girls' athletic program. His leadership ensured that female student-athletes had a structured, competitive, and well-supported program within the school’s evolving athletic framework. Known for his fairness, dedication, and ability to inspire students, Chip left an indelible mark on the McDonogh community before stepping away in 1978.

In 1965, Chip married the love of his life, the late Dolores “Dee” (Coppinger) Giardina. Their marriage of 32 years was filled with deep love, laughter, and devotion. Throughout his life, he spoke of Dee as his soulmate. Together, they built a beautiful family, adopting their son, Vince, in 1974, and their daughter, Ginger, in 1979. Family was the single most important thing in Chip’s life, and he cherished his role as a father and, later, as a grandfather to James and Gia.

After leaving McDonogh, Chip and Dee became successful entrepreneurs, well known throughout Baltimore as the owners of multiple businesses, including Padonia Liquors, The Wine Merchant, and Bank Lane Deli. Chip’s larger-than-life personality made him beloved by business partners, employees, and customers. He was quick with a joke, a story, or a kind word, always ensuring that those around him felt seen and valued. He had an incredible memory for jokes—so much so that in 2010, he compiled over 100 typed pages of his favorites in a unique memoir that includes anecdotes about his life.

In 1986, Chip survived a devastating car accident that left him in a coma with no memory. His recovery was long and arduous, but through it all, he remained positive. He openly credited his full recovery to the unwavering love of his wife, children, family, and the support of friends. This resilience and gratitude defined Chip’s outlook on life—he believed in forgiveness, fairness, treating everyone with kindness, and in the power and importance of humor to persevere.

Chip was deeply devoted to his family, a devotion shaped by the profound love and admiration he had for his own parents. He often spoke of how his mother and father were the foundation of his understanding of family, instilling in him the values of love, loyalty, and kindness that he carried throughout his life. His childhood was filled with warmth, and he cherished his parents so deeply that, even in his final months, he reflected that they were his greatest and most treasured memory.

Among the most important relationships in Chip’s life was the one he shared with his sister, Josephine “Jo” Fava. She was not only his sister but his lifelong best friend and confidante. Their bond was unshakable, and the love and laughter they shared were a constant throughout his life. He also held immense love and respect for her late husband, Frank T. Fava, who was more than a brother-in-law—he was a true brother in every sense. Their unwavering support, deep connection, and shared love of family were among the greatest blessings of Chip’s life.

Chip is also survived by his beloved first cousins, Nancy Owings and Marian Patti, with whom he shared a close bond, as well as other dear cousins, nieces, nephews, and many extended family members. His impact reached far beyond family—he is also remembered fondly by countless former students and lifelong friends who were touched by his kindness, wisdom, and humor.

In his later years, Chip found companionship and joy with Alice Alberstadt, whose presence brought warmth and laughter to his life. She was a devoted and loving partner who cared for him deeply, and she mourns his passing alongside his family and friends.

Chip’s impact on those he met was immeasurable. Throughout his life, he left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His raspy voice was unmistakable, his laugh infectious, and his quick wit and one-liners unforgettable—repeated by friends, family, and former students for years. He had a story for everything, a lesson for every moment, and a way of making people feel truly known and appreciated.

He was a source of joy and inspiration, always willing to help and always uplifting those around him. People often shared how Chip had guided, encouraged, or supported them in ways they never forgot. Even on the day of his passing, doctors and nurses stepped outside to express how much they looked forward to seeing him—his presence brightened every room, and his joy was contagious. To know Chip was to be blessed, and to be part of his world was truly an honor.

His impact on the world is immeasurable, and he will be deeply missed by his family, his friends, and the countless lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Chip’s memory to Catholic Charities, the organization through which he and Dee were blessed to adopt their beloved children, Vince and Ginger.

Philippians 1:3 – "I thank my God every time I remember you."