Gaetano Salvemini

Gaetano Salvemini, aged 92, of Fairfield, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on June 6, 2026. He was born on August 19, 1933, in Molfetta, Italy to Gasper & Vincenza. Tom emigrated to the United States at the young age of 16 with just the clothes on his back and built a life filled with passion, dedication and success. On the boat ride to the States, he was given an apple when he became seasick, that small gesture meant the world to him and he carried that with him for over 70 years. Tom was proud to be an American, he loved this country and his president.

As the proud owner and operator of Tony's Auto Repair in Union City, Tom thrived in the mechanics industry for 46 years before retiring in 2020. He made himself available for all of his customers and they all knew they could rely on him to fix their cars as a talented and honest businessman. A true car enthusiast, he had a particular fondness for Lincolns, and his love for automobiles reached new heights when a fortunate spin of a casino wheel led him to his new favorite car, a Cadillac CTSV.

Beyond his career, Tom found joy in nurturing his garden, lavishing attention on his beloved fig trees and cultivating beautiful flowers. He had a passion for crabbing and indulged in all types of shellfish, but eggplant parmigiana was his all-time favorite meal.

Although Tom found joy in many things, his whole heart was his wife, his girls and his family and he made sure to show them each how much he loved them.

Beloved husband for 67 years of Lamberta "Betty" (nee Remmig) Salvemini. Loving father of Lamberta Sanfilippo & her husband Frank, Camella Scillieri & her husband Tony, Frances Biase & her husband Tony, and Maria Laskowski & her husband Greg. Cherished grandfather of Joseph & his wife Trisha, Vincent & his wife Allison, Anthony & his wife Emily, Michael, Adrianna, Dana, Stephanie, and Thomas. Adored great-grandfather Gianna, Joseph, Alivia, and Jace.
Tom's zest for life and the joy he brought to those around him will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege to know him.

Visitation Wednesday 3-6PM at the Ippolito- Stellato Funeral Home, 7 Two Bridges Rd., Fairfield. Cremation Private.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Gaetano's memory can be made to the Fairfield Police Foundation, 230 Fairfield Rd. Fairfield, NJ 07004.