Niantic - Michael N. Salerno passed away at the New London Rehab & Care of Waterford, Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026.

He was born in 1953, to the late Samuel and Christine Salerno in New London. He was raised in Niantic and attended Elementary and Middle School there. Michael graduated from Saint Bernard High School.

He received his Associate of Arts from St. Thomas Seminary, a Bachelor of Science in social work/sociology, and a Master of Arts from James Madison University, and a master's degree in industrial/organizational psychology from the University of New Haven.

His working career consisted of being a senior civilian deputy to the Commander (Navy Admiral). An inspector general/supervisory management analyst submarine security manager at Naval Underwater Systems Center New London Laboratory. He also received a Meritorious Civilian Service Medal for Supervisor Performance of his duties. He retired from the federal government.

Michael was a member of the Knights of Columbus. He was an active member of the gym and a winner of weight lifting competitions, a dog lover and a reading enthusiast.

Michael is survived by his sister Beatrice Landry; nephew Jeffrey Landry; nephew Gregg Landry (Lena and Samantha); brother Richard Salerno (Patricia); nephew Patrick Salerno (Rebekah; niece Rachel Salerno (Bryce); and numerous cousins and close friends; and his partner, Mary Melton; he was predeceased by his brother-in-law Ken Landry.

His family extends their sincere gratitude to New London Rehab & Care and Hartford HealthCare Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Michael can be made to: St. Agnes Church, 22 Haigh Ave., Niantic, CT. 06357 or a charity of your choice.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 27, at St. Agnes Church. Interment is private.

The Thomas L. Neilan & Sons Funeral Home, 48 Grand St., Niantic is assisting the family with the arrangements.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Day on Feb. 24, 2026.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Salerno

Sponsored by Thomas L. Neilan & Sons East Lyme Funeral Home.

14 Entries

Sue Ferreira

February 27, 2026

Bea

I'm so sorry for the loss of your brother. Please accept my condolences to you and your family.

Paige Smith (Frances Santerre)

February 26, 2026

To Beatrice, Jeff and Greg,
My deepest condolences to you and your entire family."

Donna Richards

February 25, 2026

Michael´s statue was intimidating, but then you got to know him and found that his heart was just as large, if not larger. Knowing Mary as long, if not longer than Michael, I was thrilled when they found each other because they both shared such genuine and gentle souls. I am sorry that time was cut short for Micheal, and for all who knew and loved him. There´s no easy way to understand and accept the loss of someone like him too soon, but his life was adventurous and he left the world a better place. My deepest condolences to all.

Wayne Marshall Winslow

February 25, 2026

To the Salerno Family Please accept my condolences for the loss Michael.
RIP Mike.

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Jose Argarin

February 25, 2026

Michael was a very good friend. We had lots of fun in and out of the gym. RIP Michael.

Mickey Maynard

February 25, 2026

Rich and family,
So sorry for your loss. May you cherish the memories with your brother. May he rest in peace.

Kathy Kenyon

February 24, 2026

Mary and family.
I just read the passing of your partner Mike. I know you'll find solace in the memories you two made. Your mom sent you a wonderful man. Blessings to you and family

Stephen Alligood

February 24, 2026

Dear Mary, Beatrice, Rich and family, My sincere condolences go out to you all, in Michael´s passing. Michael was a kind, intelligent man, of deep integrity. He will be missed by many. I first met Michael when we were altar boys, we grew up together in Niantic, and then we back packed through Europe in 1972. I feel fortunate to have known him as a friend, for so many decades. God Bless you Michael.

Steve Alligood

Nancy Gartley

February 24, 2026

Dear Salerno Family,
I am so very saddened to read of Mike's passing. I first Mike working a summer at Rocky Neck Park's concession stand - what fun we had! We spoke over the years as our paths crossed and I always admired his quiet intelligence, strength and spiritual sense.
My deepest condolences for your loss,
Nancy

Barry Zorzanello

February 24, 2026

Michael was a lifelong friend. My life was better from having known him and his family. God bless.

Chris Marquis RN

February 24, 2026

I was one of Big Mike's nurses, all my best to the family RIP.

Bill Zorzanelo

February 24, 2026

To Mike´s family
My deepest condolences at your loss. Mike was a dear friend of our family. Although I hadn´t seen him for several years due to physical distance, my brother and friends always mentioned him. He was a wonderful person and an excellent example of how to live a loving life. My thoughts and prayers are with you now and always.
With fond memories,
Bill Zorzanello

Dave Fairman

February 24, 2026

Rest in Peace Mike

Bill Dittman

February 24, 2026

RIP Mike

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