Obituary: Albert Salese, 98, of Fairfield

From Lesko & Polke Funeral Home

Albert Salese, 98, of Fairfield, devoted husband to the late Elvira "Vera" Salese, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2017 with his loving son and daughter-in-law by his side.

Albert will be remembered by his son, Anthony Salese and his wife, Deana Salese; three siblings, Helen "Junie" Fasano, Faith "Fada" Petry and Thomas "Tommy" Salese; his cherished grandchildren, Patricia Gruner, Allison Caffarone and her husband Christopher, Nicholas Salese and his fiancée Tara Reuter, and Brendan and Ryan Salese; great grandchildren, Christopher and Annabella Caffarone; son in law, Richard Gruner; brother in law Arthur "Timmy" Navas; and many loving nieces and nephews. In addition to his beloved wife Vera, Albert was predeceased by his daughter, Joanne Gruner, and eight siblings.

Albert was born in Harlem, New York in 1918, the fourth of 11 children of his parents Girmano (Jerry) and Anna, both of whom immigrated from Italy. Albert and his wife and two children lived in the Bronx until settling in Commack where they spent many wonderful years, and later, in 2003, Albert and Vera moved to Fairfield.

Albert began working for a living in NYC at the early age of 14. He later started his own business, the Salese Trucking Company, which he continued until he was in his 70's. It was his strong work ethic that brought him success in both business and in life, an ethic he instilled in his children. Albert took pride in providing for his family and, by his own admission, in never missing a day of work.

Albert always loved all children. He found great joy in playing with his grandchildren and, eventually, great grandchildren. The Salese household was always filled with warmth, laughter, lots of Italian food and many all-night card games. Albert was an avid gambler—he and Vera enjoyed playing cards, going to the track and especially going to the Atlantic City casinos.

Albert was a humble, generous and loving man, always putting his family before himself. He understood and liked most everyone, and people paid him back in kind. His friends and family will remember him as he always was: wearing his cap, an open smile, and showing, in every way he could, that he loved and cared for them. His family and those he touched throughout his long and wonderful life will embrace Albert's memory and live by his example.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday from 4-8 PM in the Lesko & Polke Funeral Home 1209 Post Road, in Fairfield Center. His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday at 11 AM directly in Christ the King Church, 2 Indian Head Road, Commack, NY with the interment to follow in Commack Cemetery.

To honor Albert and to remember his late daughter Joanne, memorial contributions may be directed to: Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation 2000 Commonwealth Ave. (suite 205) Newton, MA 02466 (www.KomenNewEngland.org).

For more information and to leave online condolences, visit Lesko & Polke Funeral Home here.