Salvatore Francis Saiya

Salvatore Francis Saiya, known lovingly as Dad, Grandpa, and Sal, 96, of Cape Coral, FL passed away on the evening of June 19, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. Born on March 5, 1929, in Brooklyn, NY.

A man of deep faith and unwavering devotion to his family and friends, Sal lived a life marked by service, love, and quiet strength.

He was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army, embodying patriotism and duty. After his military service, he built a long and respected career at AT&T, where his dedication and work ethic were admired by all who knew him. Sal even helped start a company softball league with some of his closest pals at AT&T.

Sal was a devoted husband of the late Yvonne, with whom he shared 60-plus years of marriage. Together, they raised three daughters- Judy Saiya-Derr (David), Jacky Saiya, and Janet Saiya-Santiago (Richard) - who carry forward his values and spirit.

His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Demica Mattia (Chris), Kayley Schonschack (Don), Paige Santiago, and Jeniffer Medina Santiago (Jose), great-grandchildren: River Schonschack and soon-to-be Asher Schonschack, and his best bud L.T. (dog), who brought him endless pride and joy.

A devout Catholic, Sal's faith was a guiding light throughout his life.

He will be remembered for his humor, intellect, kindness, humility, patience, and the deep love he had for his family. In his free time, he worked on projects around the house, wrote editorials to the local newspaper, enjoyed symmetrically trimming his plants, watching the birds, lounging on his lounge chair, listening to jazz music, making biscotti, watching Fox News, and a life-long fan of the Jets and Mets, since the Brooklyn Dodgers headed out West.

He may be gone from our sight, but never from our hearts.

A funeral Mass will be held at St. Katharine Drexel Catholic Church in Cape Coral, FL on Monday, July 21, 2025, at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Candlelighters of Southwest Florida.

https://candlelightersswfl.org/#