John Salerno, 88, passed away on Wednesday, at Ridgewood Care Center. He was born in Cosenza, Italy, on July 27, 1929, and was the son of the late Salvatore and Caterina (Nee: Missurelli) Salerno. John had been a resident of Racine since 1936 and graduated from St. Catherine’s High School in 1949.
He proudly served in the U.S. Air Force, stationed in Korea from 1951-1953. On December 7, 1963, he was united in marriage to Elaine Buetel who preceded him in death May 10, 2010. John was employed by Acme Die Casting for over 50 years retiring in 2002. He was an avid golfer and will be dearly missed.
Surviving are his children, John Salerno, Robert Droysen and Jean Graham; granddaughter, Kelly Droysen; sister and brother-in-law, Angie and Frank Sullivan; nephews, Matthew (Jan) Sullivan, Michael (Lori) Sullivan, Frank (Sheri) Sullivan; other relatives and dear friends.
Private services followed by interment will be held at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery.
The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff of Ridgewood and Allay Hospice for their loving and compassionate care.