Melvin Murray Salzman

Born July 22, 1936 in Nyack, New York, Mel was raised in Union, New Jersey. A proud graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson University, he went on to pursue a distinguished career as a sales executive for Pechiney World Trade, an international trade company based in France. His professional life took him across many borders, but his heart was always firmly rooted in his family, whom he raised in Manalapan, New Jersey. Upon retirement, they moved into the Four Seasons Senior Community in Lakewood, where he resided until his death. President of the Men’s Club and an avid singer and performer at many local events, Mel loved his community and will be dearly missed.

Mel was a man who lived life to the fullest and shared that joy with everyone he encountered. Finding his singing voice later in life, he filled many rooms with his renditions of Frank Sinatra classics. Whether he was singing "My Way" or simply sharing a story, Mel lived by the words he loved to sing—with a vibrant spirit and an enduring love for those closest to him.

Mel is survived by his wife of 65 years, Sondra "Terry" Salzman; his son, Marc; his daughter, Nadene; and his daughter-in-law, Lisa. He was the adored grandfather of Vivienne and Ashton. While Mel’s biological family was small, his "chosen family" was vast; he leaves behind numerous close friends who cherished his company and valued his friendship deeply. He was predeceased by his parents, Abraham Salzman and Fannie Nissman.

In accordance with Mel’s wishes, there will be no calling hours or public services. He was laid to rest peacefully in a private burial, in his birthplace of Nyack on Friday, February 13.

May the melody of Mel’s life continue to play in our hearts forever. May his memory be a blessing.