“Quando ami la tua famiglia, vivi per sempre.”
“When you love your family, you live forever.”
Salvatore “Sal” Ferlazzo was the definition of a true Italian family man, a devoted
husband, proud father, and beloved Nonno whose heart was as big as the meals around his table. Born in the small town of Gioiosa Marea, Sicily, Sal fell in love with his childhood sweetheart, Maria, while they were still in elementary school. As a young boy, he spent his days outdoors with friends, diving for squid and embracing the simple joys of life before the outbreak of World War II. Sal often shared vivid memories of tanksrolling through the streets of his hometown and American soldiers hiding in his family’s farmland during the war.
At the age of 20, Sal and Maria immigrated to northeast Ohio in pursuit of the American dream. Industrious by nature, Sal quickly found work as a mason and bricklayer, skills he would later employ to build two homes in the Poconos and handcraft countless beautiful fireplaces. He steadfastly taught himself the English language by reading local newspapers and engaging with his peers. Through continued sacrifice, determination, and unwavering perseverance, they ultimately built a beautiful life together in Delran, New Jersey, where they lovingly raised their two children, Nicholas and Roseann.
Sal dedicated much of his professional life to his craft as a barber, opening and
operating several barber shops and beauty salons over a span of more than fifty years. His shops naturally became staples within the community, perpetually filled with conversation, laughter, and blossoming friendships. Even when he was no longer able to work, his large smile and cheerful demeanor were reliably present within the shop walls, where he continued to go every morning just to socialize with customers and friends who had become like family over the decades.
Sal fully embraced his Italian heritage and took immense pride in the traditions he carried with him from Sicily. Each year, he crafted homemade vino, canned tomatoes for sauce, and prepared meals that brought family and friends together around the table. His home was always open to others, and simple dinners often became unforgettable feasts filled with love, laughter, storytelling, and enough food for everyone. Sal never missed an opportunity to share a game of cards, a strong espresso, and slices of homemade soppressata with those he loved most.
Above all things, Sal cherished his beloved family and instilled in them the values of responsibility, integrity, resilience, and unconditional love. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Maria; his parents, Giuseppa and Nicolo Ferlazzo; and his sisters, Sara, Antonia, and Carmela. He is survived by his loving children, Nick and Roseann (Don); his sister, Rita; his grandchildren, Eric (Krissy), Peter (Kate), Adrianna, and Joseph; great-grandchildren, Jacob, Giuliana, Ryan, Victoria, Vivian, and Cameron; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will forever treasure the memories they shared with him. His legacy of love, generosity, faith, family, and Italian tradition will continue to live on in all who knew and loved him.
Family and friends are invited to honor and remember Salvatore at Sweeney Funeral Home in Riverside, New Jersey. Viewing services will be held on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and again on Thursday morning, June 4, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Entombment at St. Peter’s Mausoleum will follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Salvatore’s memory to CancerFree KIDS (https://cfk.donordrive.com/give/donate) or Autism research charities(https://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/eaglesautismfoundation/).
