Salvatore Altadonna, a cherished husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and cornerstone of his community, passed away peacefully on October 3, 2026, at the age of 89.

Born in Carini, Sicily, on July 8, 1937, to the late Ninfa Lucido and John Baptist Altadonna, Salvatore grew up with a deep respect for family, tradition, and hard work.

As a young man in Italy, he proudly served his country in the Italian Army for four years.

Seeking new opportunities, Salvatore immigrated to New York City in the 1960s.

On July 31, 1969, he married the love of his life, Grazia Carcioppolo, beginning a beautiful journey together that spanned 57 blessed years of marriage.

A true craftsman with an extraordinary work ethic, he spent two decades working in masonry and carpentry across NYC.

His entrepreneurial spirit led him to open pizzerias in Staten Island and Brooklyn before he and Grazia decided to settle into their home in Ellenville, New York, in 1981.

In Napanoch, NY, Salvatore established Brother John’s Pizzeria & Restaurant Inc., which he successfully owned and operated for 30 years.

Through his restaurant, Salvatore became a beloved staple of the local community, making lifelong friends and welcoming everyone with warmth and generous hospitality.

Salvatore believed in family above all else. He was a dedicated family man whose happiest moments were spent surrounded by those he loved, sharing good food, laughter, and stories.

A true handyman at heart, he found immense joy in working on his home and always staying busy.

After retiring from the restaurant business at age 75, Salvatore enjoyed quiet, cherished moments at home with Grazia and taking adventurous cruises together. Never one to sit idle, his love for work and generous spirit kept him active; he served on the maintenance teams at Walmart for 10 years and at Tops Market in Ellenville right up until his passing.

Salvatore was predeceased by his parents, Ninfa Lucido and John Baptist Altadonna, as well as his seven cherished siblings.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Grazia Altadonna; his devoted children, son John Altadonna and daughter Ninfa Altadonna; his cherished grandchildren, Dylan John Altadonna, Kyle Steven Altadonna, Isabela Borth, and Lucas Borth; as well as many dear friends who felt like family.

“When you have family, good food on the table, and honest work for your hands, you have everything.”

Visitation will take place privately at Loucks Funeral Home, 79 North Main Street, Ellenville, NY 12428, on October 12, 2026.

A Funeral Mass will be held and all are welcome to attend on October 13, 2026, at 1:15 PM at St. Mary’s & St. Andrew’s Church, 139 South Main Street, Ellenville, NY 12428

Entombment will follow the Funeral Mass and will take place at Wiltwyck Cemetery, 205 W O’Reilly Street, Kingston, NY 12401.

The staff of Loucks Funeral Home, extends our deepest condolences to Grazia, the Altadonna family, and all who loved Salvatore during this difficult time. It is an honor to serve your family, and our thoughts and prayers remain with you as you celebrate his rich, vibrant life and legacy.