Michael Salmon

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Michael Salmon on March 19. He was a truly remarkable man, a loving husband, father, and devoted grandfather.

Michael was a devoted and loving husband who adored his wife, Joanne, for nearly 50 years. Their marriage was a beautiful example of commitment, partnership, and unwavering love.

He was the best dad anyone could ever ask for, and his love for his children—Kellyanne, Kristen, and Michael—was unmatched. He was their constant support, biggest cheerleader, and safest place, and the bond he shared with each of them was something truly special.

Nothing in this world brought him more joy than his five beloved grandchildren: Maddie, Camden, Ellasyn, Hudson, and Tatum. Being their “Papa” was his greatest pride. The grandchildren cherished their special outings with him—trips to Target, Starbucks, and Chick-fil-A that became treasured traditions filled with laughter and love.

Michael was an incredibly dedicated and hardworking professional throughout his 25-year career with Jani-King. When he joined the Rhode Island office in 2005, the owners quickly felt they had found the missing piece of the puzzle. Through his talent, determination, and steady leadership, he helped elevate the office to new heights. More than his professional accomplishments, Michael will be remembered for the pride he took in his work, the support he offered to those around him, and the genuine relationships he built along the way.

He was recognized nationally for his excellence in sales, earning National Sales Executive of the Year three times, placing second three times, and achieving numerous top-five finishes. Michael was widely regarded as one of the best salespeople in the history of Jani-King. Colleagues across the country looked up to him, often reaching out for advice and guidance, a testament to both his skill and his willingness to support others.

While their home was being built in Florida, they spent time in North Carolina, creating memories that will be treasured forever. He especially loved those moments with his grandchildren—sleepovers with Papa, staying up late, eating junk food, and swimming in the pool. He took such pride in each of them and loved staying connected to their lives, always asking for updates on football, soccer, and volleyball games.

Although his time in Florida was brief, he and Joanne were living out their retirement dream—enjoying dinners, game nights, and music under the stars, creating meaningful moments together with friends.

Michael had a way of lighting up any room. His favorite phrase, “I can’t wait for tomorrow because I get better looking every day,” perfectly captured his humor and the joy he brought to his sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews, friends, and coworkers. He constantly made people smile, no matter the situation. He was one of the kindest, most selfless, and loving people to ever exist.

Even during his most difficult days, Michael never complained. He continued to think of others, always expressing gratitude and thanking everyone around him. His strength, grace, and selflessness never wavered.

He is survived by his adoring wife, Joanne; his three children, Kellyanne Simons, Kristen Salmon and her loving partner, Tim Stone, Michael Salmon and his wife, Melissa Salmon; his five grandchildren, Maddie, Camden, Ellasyn, Hudson, and Tatum; and his siblings, John (Joanne) Salmon, Mary (Phil) Henderson, Martha Salmon, and Cathy Salmon. Michael was predeceased by his parents Joseph and Patricia Salmon, and his brother Joseph Salmon.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Michael’s honor may be made to the Mayo Clinic (https://www.mayo.edu/research/clinical-trials/diseases-conditions/small-bowel-cancer) to support their vital research in small bowel cancer.