Mr. Sebastiano "Sal" Vultaggio

He was the world’s unluckiest lucky person, the luckiest unlucky person, the cat with nine lives. But, on Friday, October 20 at 2:15 p.m., Sal took his final breath, surrounded by his loving family. He was only 66 years old.

Sal is not his birth name, but Andrea couldn’t hear Sebastiano over his thick Sicilian accent the first time they met at Le’Jardin, back when he was a “cool dude” at the disco with his mustache, size 28 jeans, white guinea tee, and black leather jacket.

True to his carefree nature, he was not willing to correct Andrea about his name. Thus, Sebastiano became Sal to anyone who met him after Andrea.

One of his greatest joys in life was creating delicious pizzas that brought friends and family together. Whether it was a weekend gathering, a birthday celebration, or a simple Monday night, Sal knew that the secret ingredient to any happy occasion was love – and his pizzas were seasoned generously with it.

But Sal’s love extended far beyond the kitchen. He was a man with a heart of gold, always eager to lend a helping hand and nourish both body and soul. He truly believed that the key to happiness lay in giving, and his generosity knew no bounds. Many will remember his warm smile and the way he made you feel at home, even if you were miles away from it.

Sal was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Andrea, who stood by his side through thick and thin. She loved him with an unwavering devotion in a way that only Andrea could.

For 43 incredible years, Andrea shared an extraordinary bond with her Sal, who adored her beyond measure. Their love was an enduring testament to the power of devotion and companionship, where Sal's affection knew no bounds. He would do anything to fulfill her every wish. He was not just a husband but her soulmate, an inseparable part of her being. With Sal's passing, we feel the weight of a heartbroken spirit, a love story left incomplete, and an irreplaceable companion that will forever remain in the cherished recesses of her heart.

Sal was a pillar of strength and support for his three children, Maria, Anthony, and, especially, Felicia.

Sal leaves behind his passion for nurturing plants, which Maria proudly carries forward. Even now, every window in Maria's apartment is adorned with thriving greenery. Through the vibrant leaves and blossoms, Sal's memory lives on, reminding us of the beauty he cultivated in both his garden and his daughter's heart.

Sal shared a unique bond with his son, Anthony. Anthony, as a child, would squish his toes to mimic his father's distinctive toes, proudly exclaiming, "Look, just like Dad!" Their relationship was marked by lively, passionate debates about politics. Their differing viewpoints ignited spirited discussions that were rooted in love and mutual respect.

Sal had a rare relationship with his youngest daughter, Felicia, affectionately known to only him as "Foofie Foo." Together, they had their secret sayings, their little codes that only they understood, like hop on pop or wet behind the ears.

They had a special bond over food, and Sal delighted in sharing his culinary creations with his beloved Foofie. Their shared meals were more than just food; they were a way of nourishing their connection and each other's company.

Fefe will miss her Dada more than words can say.

Uncle Sal, a beloved figure in the lives of his nephews and nieces — Christina, Ralphie, Melissa, Toni-Anne and Gino — leaves behind a treasured legacy of Italian traditions, ensuring that the essence of their culture would endure. He was their culinary mentor, teaching them the art of crafting pizza from scratch, and how to prepare calamari and a seafood sauce that could rival any Italian kitchen.

Yet, not all lessons were in the kitchen: He taught them how to nurture fig trees, a symbol of their shared roots.

He also shared the playful side of tradition, revealing the occasional card game trick that added a touch of mischief to their holiday gatherings. In his memory, Uncle Sal's influence lives on, woven into the tapestry of our family, making each tradition a loving reminder of his enduring presence.

Sal had a remarkable ability to soothe those around him with a simple phrase: "Don't worry about it." It was the way he said it, with a comforting tone and a reassuring smile, that made all worries seem a little less daunting.

In times of distress, Sal's words had a magical power, and his presence was a beacon of calmness and comfort. He had an extraordinary knack for making life's troubles feel more manageable, and for that, he will be remembered as a source of strength and tranquility in the lives of those who knew him. We miss him now more than ever.

In Sal's memory, let us all strive to carry forward his spirit of generosity and love. Just as he spread happiness through every slice of pizza he served, may we remember to share our love and kindness with those around us, for that is the greatest way to honor his memory.

As Sal's earthly journey comes to a close, we wish him a safe passage to the other side. We find solace in the belief that he has been welcomed into the gates of heaven by the loving embrace of his departed relatives.

Reunited with his parents, Maria and Rosario, and joined by his brother Carmelo and brother-in-law, John, Sal's arrival in the afterlife is marked by a joyous family reunion.

Their celestial gathering serves as a testament to the enduring bonds of love and connection that transcend the boundaries of life and death. In their heavenly embrace, Sal's spirit finds eternal peace and happiness, forever surrounded by the warmth of those he held dear.

Rest in peace, dear Sal. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten. We love you forever.

You'll be throwing pies in heaven now.

Written by Maria Schefflin