Mr. Vincent Salatino's Obituary
Vincent Salvatore Salatino was born on February 11, 1937 in Herkimer, New York. A first generation American, his parents John Salatino and Marion Spadea came to America from the mountainous regions of Reggio Calabria on the southern-most tip of Italy. He kept his two older sisters, Alba and Rose Marie "entertained" with his many childhood antics. Not everyone enjoyed his humor, however, as he was kicked out of kindergarten, not once, but twice. At the age of thirteen, he went to work for his uncle, John Talarico, along with his cousins Frankie and Johnnie Talarico. They worked in the Quarry where "Herkimer Diamonds" were later discovered. He attended and graduated from Herkimer High School along with many friends and his "blood brother", Tony George. Vince was given free range in art class to create whatever he wanted. His art teacher believed him to have the best "eye" for perspective of anyone he had seen. This great love for art was passed on to both his children and grandchildren. While in high-school, he was also the pitcher for the baseball team and scouts from the Cleveland Browns wanted to sign him right after graduation, which didn't happen do to a coaching change. He did play triple A ball and also boxed in New York City at the age of 18 where he broke his nose twice, once in each sport. He moved to St. Petersburg Florida in 1958 where he attended the Electricians Apprenticeship School, earning his Journeyman Wireman degree. He married Vinabell Bricker of Michigan in 1962. They were married for almost forty eight years. In 1963 their daughter, Dena, was born. In 1964 he moved everyone back up north to Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. He raised his two children, son Randy and daughter Dena, in the suburbs where, together with Vi, they cultivated many life long friendships. After working in the Steel Mills and the Children's Hospital (which was heart breaking to him) he returned to Florida to set up his home on a piece of property he had originally purchased for hunting purposes in conjunction with his friend and brother-in-law George Nolan in 1973. He and George spent many memorable times hunting and rock hounding together over the course of time. After the move to Florida, he made several family road trips, filled with fun and laughter, back and forth to Michigan and New York to visit much loved family members. He worked for IBEW Local Union 308 at various commercial electrical jobs including the Anclote Power House, the Crystal River Power House, the Vertical Assembly Building in Cape Canaveral and many locations around the country from Tarahout Indiana to Beaumount Texas. In the mid 1980's with his two long-time traveling buddies, Bruce Matsik and Ken Whiting, Vince started 3B Electric and worked locally. The company was retired in 1999 when Vince was 62 due to severe health problems. Sometime around 1989 Vince put his faith and trust in Jesus Christ as his personal Savior and became a Christian. He battled kidney disease for many years effectively prolonging the onset of dialysis with the help of a great nutritionist and answered prayers from an awesome God. On Tuesday December 1, 2009 after a ten month battle in and out of hospitals and rehab centers, Vince went home to be with the Lord. He is a hero to his children, grandchildren and others along the way. He was an avid hunter and an amazing artist. He loved nature and everything about the great outdoors. He was a wonderful listener and a great encourager. He brought joy and laughter into the lives of many people. He is a treasure. All who truly knew him have been blessed. Until we are reunited in heaven with him he will be tremendously missed. Arrangements under the direction of Grace Memorial Gardens & Funeral Home, Hudson, FL (727) 863-5471.
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