Jay L. Salgat, Sr.

Jay L. Salgat, Sr. of Caro, age 91, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at Heritage Hill Assisted Living. Jay was born on July 24, 1934, in Caro, the son of the late Charles and Josephine (Vandervoort) Salgat. He was a proud 1952 graduate of Caro High School.

Jay faithfully served his country in the United States Army, receiving an honorable discharge in 1956. On August 16, 1958, he was united in marriage with Janet (Gaul) Salgat in Caro. Janet preceded him in death on April 1, 2020.

A lifelong resident of Caro, Jay dedicated his life to his family farm and to a distinguished forty-three year career at Eaton/Grede foundry in Vassar. Known for his exceptional skills as a farmer, mechanic, welder, and builder, Jay was a perfectionist who took immense pride in every task he undertook. He became the local expert in the care of apple trees and in producing apple cider, generously sharing the fruits of his labor with neighbors and local retirement homes.

When not working or tinkering on the farm, Jay enjoyed tending to his yard, camping, hunting, and fishing. His passion for the outdoors and for hands-on projects defined his life and left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Jay leaves to cherish his memory two sons, Jay L. Salgat Jr. (Angie Gullekson) of Cadillac and Brian (Jo) Salgat of Lowell; grandchildren, Bradley (Lexi DiPietro) Salgat of Fitchburg, Wisconsin and Parker Salgat of Lowell; sister, Evelyn Montague of Caro; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents and wife, Jay was preceded in death by a daughter-in-law, Peggy (Armstrong) Salgat; brothers, Raymond, Wilbur, Elmer, Leland “Bud”, and Lucein “Lue” Salgat; sisters, Sylvia Frederick, Goldie Chiti, and Gladys Calihan.

In keeping with Jay’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A graveside service with military honors will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 28, 2026 at the Almer Township Cemetery in Caro with Rev. Michele Hile officiating.

Our family would like to express our appreciation to Heritage Hill Assisted Living and Heartland Hospice for their kindness and compassion while our father was under their care. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider a donation in memory of Jay to either organization.