Salvatore Louis Messina, 83, of Lancaster, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 21, 2024 at Hospice & Community Care.

Born in Bronx, NY, he was the son of the late Pasquale and Elizabeth (Fazio) Messina. He was the husband of Kathleen (Coppock) Messina with whom he raised 5 children.

Sal, a proud Navy veteran, served as a cook for the crew on the USS HJ Ellison. After his Navy career, he chose a profession in law enforcement, working as a policeman for the 4th Precinct in Suffolk County, New York. Following 20 years of dedicated service, Sal retired and moved to Lancaster, PA, with his wife Kathleen and their children. In Lancaster, they founded S&K Concessions, allowing Sal to indulge in his passion for cooking.

Sal dedicated much of his time to volunteering within his community. He was a member of St. Joseph's RC Church, where he served as an usher and a member of the Social Justice Committee. He spent much of his time building relationships with local businesses to support the care and feeding of the poor and homeless. His commitment to this cause was unwavering, as he spent four days a week collecting and distributing donations, a routine he maintained up until a month before his passing. Additionally, Sal found immense joy and fulfillment in his work with the Building Bridges Foundation, a veterans' organization where he took great pride in organizing hospitality, securing donations, and, of course, cooking for events.

Sal is survived by his wife, Kathleen who supported and assisted in all his hopes and dreams. Together, they raised their children: Michele Griffith, Michael (Selina) Messina, Barbara (Chuck) Bassani, Michael (Lisa) Hagen, and James Hagen. Sal found great pride and joy in his grandchildren: Brandon, Brianna, Jocelyn, Lauren, Mariah, Nathan, Anthony, Charlie, Melanie, and Cooper.

Friends and family are invited to gather from 10 AM to 11 AM on Saturday, July 20, 2024, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 440 St. Joseph St., Lancaster, PA 17603. A Funeral Mass will follow at 11 AM. Interment will be held privately at the family's convenience.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Sal's name to: Building Bridges Foundation, 230 Indian Hill Road, Conestoga, PA 17516.