Matthew Salemi

Matthew Salemi, 91, of Auburn passed away peacefully early Tuesday morning, July 21, 2026, at his home.

He immigrated from Siculiana, Sicily, when he was 13 years old through Ellis Island and became a lifelong resident of Auburn thereafter. The son of the late Alfonso and Rosaria (Callea) Salemi, he grew up on Columbus Street and lived and raised his family on Wallace Avenue. Matt was employed by the former Alco Products for more than 35 years and was a very devout Catholic and lifelong communicant of St. Francis of Assisi Church. He was a very meticulous and skilled painter, having painted many homes and businesses throughout his lifetime. Above everything, Matt dedicated his life to caring for his family and will be greatly missed by all of them.

He is survived by his loving children, Rosalind ‘Roz’ Fallat, Matthew Salemi Jr., Diane Buttaro, Gary Salemi, Dan Salemi, and John Salemi. Grandchildren include Amanda, Dominic, Nicole, Gweneth, Michael, Joseph, Felicia, Adam, Ben, Dan, Mende, Kiersten, Katlin, and Christian, as well as several great-grandchildren, sister Josie Oliveras (Ralph Nelson), two daughters-in-law, Nancy and Sherry Salemi, and several nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was also predeceased by his wife, Marian; two sons, Alfonso and Joseph Salemi; grandson Eric; and brother Joseph Salemi.

A calling hour will be held this Saturday, July 25th, from 10:30 AM until 11:30 AM, with his mass of Christian burial to immediately follow at St. Francis of Assisi Church. Burial will be held at the convenience of the family.

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