Obituaries
Salvatore Louis Messina, 83
June 21, 2024
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.
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Condolences to the Family
August 07, 2024
I worked with Sal in Smithtown. He drove the 410 sec car and I drove the 402 sec car. He was always pleasant, smiling and a credit to the SCPD. I remember one day I drove up to the relief point, at the hilltop diner on Brookside dr and main st, and Sal had a perm. He asked me what you think? It looks great. I had to say that because I had one too. Sorry I didnt respond sooner but I lost touch with most of the guys, except Bill DiMola and Pat Perritt. Pat is the one who told me about Sal. He was extremely liked by all his peers. God bless Sal and his entire family. Stay safe one day you will meet up with Sal again. Deepest condolences to you and your family. 🙏🙏
Frank Kinder
July 20, 2024
Dear Kathy and family,
My prayers and love are with you and your family at this time of great loss. Sal was an example to all of us at St Mary’s community meal on his tireless giving to those in the community, hungry for a meal. Matthew 25:40 says: “Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me.” Sal was a true servant of God. I’m sorry to miss his funeral mass. God bless you in the days, weeks and months ahead. Mary Lynn Devine, St Mary’s parishioner
June 27, 2024
Dear Kathy,
There was not a time when Sal’s presence didn’t communicate joy in what he was doing. He was a wonderful example to all and such a kind man. Our sincere condolences to you and the family,
Anne and Frank Orban
Parishoners at St Joseph Church
June 26, 2024
Kathy and Family,
So sorry for Sal’s passing. I feel we were just getting to know him better through our fondness for St. Joe’s family. I wish we could be with you at Sal’s service but we will be out of town. I will make sure to give you a hug as soon as I see you. Love and prayers to you and your family. May Jesus hold you all in his hands during this difficult time.
June 26, 2024
My condolences to Kathy and family, I’m glad I got to know Sal. Miss seeing him. Rest in peace my friend
Ken @ KBS Auto repair
June 26, 2024
Kathy, I was truly sorry to hear the news of Sal’s passing. You indicated that he was quite ill when we met at L recently. My sincere thoughts are with you and your family. Fondly, Michael
- Visitation
- Saturday, July 20, 2024
- 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
- St. Joseph Catholic Church
- 440 St. Joseph St.
- Lancaster, PA 17603
- Map and Directions
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Get Maps and Directions > - Services
- Saturday, July 20, 2024
- 11:00 AM
- St. Joseph Catholic Church
- 440 St. Joseph St.
- Lancaster, PA 17603
- Map and Directions
-
Get Maps and Directions >
