Robert J. Salerno

Robert J. Salerno, 88, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on July 2, 2020 at Niagara Hospice House.  Born on April 23, 1932 in Niagara Falls, NY, he was the son of the late Joseph and Gertrude (Bentley) Salerno.

Bob, as he was known, was a lifelong resident of Niagara Falls, NY, attended local schools and was proud graduate of the former Trott Vocational High School.  He served in the United States Navy, abroad the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier, until his honorable discharge in 1954. Bob was employed by Goodyear Chemical Company, where he worked first in the maintenance department, then as Assistant Personnel Manager and retired as a Plant Safety Manager. After his retirement, he drove school bus for Niagara Falls Coach Lines for 16 years.  In his spare time, he spent many hours in his workshop enjoying woodworking.  Bob and his deceased friend, Don Moreland, went cross-country on their motorcycles.  He had a great life but more importantly a huge heart. When it came to children and their needs, he did anything he could do.  Bob served as a Boy Scout Leader and a Big Brother, being awarded the Big Brother Award.

On May 13, 1995, Bob married Dolly Sherwood at St. John de LaSalle Church. In addition to his best friend and beloved wife, Bob is survived by children, Mary Salerno, Patti (Howard Bartels) Salerno DesLauries and Sharon Salerno; step-children, Deborah (John) Forcucci, Cindy (Doug) Wojtowicz, Kimberly Sherwood Barnard, Valerie Sherwood and Shannon Sherwood; grandchildren, Christopher (Liz) Sherwood, Erica Sherwood, Tony Guiterrez, Tori Orel, Anthony Forcucci, Nicholas Forcucci and Marisa Forcucci and was predeceased by a grandson, Michael Pawlikowski, Jr. He is also survived by great-grandchildren, Haylee, Brooklyn, David, Ellie and Zoe; a sister, Marie Denton; his loving feline companion, Diamond and several nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to his parents and grandson, he was predeceased by his former spouse, RoseMarie (Pallaci) Salerno.

Services will be held at a later date.  If desired, memorial offerings may be made to Niagara Hospice.  Arrangements are under the direction of Michael R. Goodlander of OTTO REDANZ FUNERAL HOME.  To share condolences, visit Bob’s tribute page at GOODLANDERCARES.com

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