Geraldine Mary Salvato, 81, a lifelong resident of Norwalk, died peacefully in her sleep on March 27, 2022. Geraldine was born in Norwalk, daughter of the late Joseph and Frances (Basile) Salvato. She was predeceased by her infant sister Phyllis Salvato and her sister-in-law Patricia Chain Salvato. She is survived by her brother Anthony R. Salvato DDS and partner Carol Millman and her nephews Michael Salvato (Eve Levy and Nicholas & Sophia), Christopher Salvato (Linda Localzo and Mizzy, Robert & Paige Krajewski and baby CeCe) and her nieces Lori Salvato Rodriguez (John Rodriguez, Andrew & Lindsey, Amanda & James Clark, Samantha and partner Sam Romano, Jessica, and Sarah), and Lisa Salvato Parks (Noah, Hannah).
Gerry, as she was known to her friends and family, had lived at the Stoler House since it opened in 1985. The house is part of STAR, a Norwalk-based nonprofit that reinvented what it meant to care for people with disabilities. Gerry worked at the STAR workshops for many years and enjoyed going to the Norwalk Senior Center and participating in STAR’s yearly Variety Show at Norwalk City Hall.
During her 35 years at Stoler House, Gerry enjoyed the many friends she made and deeply appreciated her relationships with the past and present staff, especially her caretaker Vivian and house manager Sharon. Gerry loved corsages, her collection of pocketbooks, pictures, hats, and stuffed animals. She enjoyed shopping and dining out, especially when chocolate cake was included. Her favorite pastime was to spend the holidays and time with her brother and family. Gerry was known for her sharp memory and recollection of the people she met and places she visited. Her warm and friendly personality and infectious smile will be missed.
Gerry leaves behind her housemates and second family/friends Stephen, Billy Ray, Maxine, James, Bertil, and Phyllis!
Her family will receive friends on Friday, April 1, from 5-7 PM at the Magner Funeral Home, 12 Mott Ave, Norwalk. Her Funeral Mass will be held at 10 A M on Saturday, April 2, at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, 203 East Avenue, Norwalk, with burial to follow at St. John Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be sent to c/o: Sharon Beckford, STAR 182 Wolfpit Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06851.