Joseph "Jake" Salafia

Susan and I were very saddened to hear of the passing of Coach Salafia. He was my coach for many years, a valuable mentor and a true friend. He will be missed by all who knew him. Our condolences to his family.

One of the most patient kind hearted man I have ever met. I listened to his words with reverence as he was always correct. This legend will be missed. Thoughts and prayers to the family. Cherish the memories as they are perfect.

We taught at Cromwell High School for many years. Being a small town and small school, the staff came to know each other as a form of extended family including some of the children. Staff social get-togethers were more common then and allowed for closer relationships. Especially memorable were the heady sports days of the late 60s and early 70s. Jake and his student teams created a buzz and a following. I recall that Pete Cole would provide a school bus for fans and staff to attend tournament...

Dear Shirley and family,
I am so sorry to hear that Jake has passed. Throughout my lifetime Jake was a presence because of his close friendship with my brother "Moe" and their friend "Marv." (Thanks for mentioning Hillside Ave - it brings back such warm memories. ) Growing up the three boys were inseparable, and kept their friendship over their lifetimes. More recently I saw Jake at the Y and at Russell Library events. Even though I was a little sister Jake always remembered me - ...

Dear Shirley and family. I was saddened to hear in Jake's passing. Everyone who knew Jake loved him. What a fine man. Always with a friendly smile and hello. I will keep Jake and all the family in my prayers.

Most coaches certainly don't coach for the money. They do it for the love of kids, the sport, and competition. It is immeasurable the amount of positive influence Jake had on the kids of Cromwell coaching multiple sports. I remember fondly the days at the old Cromwell High School with fans pouring out of the gym into the hallways to get a glimpse of the games. Jake will never be forgotten in the town of Cromwell, and will always have a place in state history. Rest in peace Coach.

Mr. Salafia was one of my 6th grade teachers and we all got invited to his wedding to the now Mrs. Salafia! It was the first wedding I had ever attended and I felt so honored! What a great couple and I am so glad they had so many years together! He was also a great teacher! We all loved him! I have fond memories of Cromwell always winning at basketball under his guidance when I was in high school - he was a great coach and all the players loved him! We were all proud Panthers when we...

Coach. Just your presence was motivation enough for me. I felt you were really proud of our team. Thank you for being my coach. Class of 1965 cross country team.

I am deeply indebted to Coach Jake Salafia. He was my best coach (1964), best mentor (70's), and best role-model and father-figure in my lifetime! I fortunately was able to learn from the best. I modeled my career in athletics and teaching after him. Al Holowesko - (Retired Cromwell Middle School A.D. and Coach 1970-2005). My heartfelt condolences go out to his entire family.