Salvatore Michael Della Ventura

Salvatore Michael Della Ventura, a resident of Palm Coast, Florida, passed away peacefully on December 2, 2023, at the Stuart F. Meyer Hospice House. He was born on April 7, 1928, in Plainfield, New Jersey, to the late Anthony Della Ventura and Victoria Varone Della Ventura.

Salvatore's journey began with a commitment to service when, during high school, he enlisted in the United States Navy. He valiantly served during the conclusion of World War II and the Korean Conflict. He served aboard The USS Kearsarge, USS Shenandoah and The USS Hamill. Remarkably, while in the Navy, he completed his high school education and earned an associate degree in dental technology. His dedication to education and dentistry continued throughout his life.

Upon his honorable discharge, Salvatore became the proud founding owner of Della Ventura Dental Lab. His passion for the field extended to teaching at Union County College of Dental Technology. After decades of tireless work, he retired in 1990, and he and his beloved wife, Beverly Ann Leahy Della Ventura, embarked on a new chapter in sunny Palm Coast, Florida.

Salvatore's impact reached far beyond his professional endeavors. He was an active member of numerous organizations, reflecting his deep commitment to community and faith. His memberships included The Holy Name Society of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Plainfield, New Jersey, the American Dental Technicians Association, The Holy Name Society, The Navy League, Order of Alhambra,), VFW, Italian American Social Club, Pine Lakes Country Club, and the Knights of Columbus, where he achieved the rank of 4th degree Knight and participated in their golf league. He was also an Usher for 34 years at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton of Palm Coast.

Beyond his remarkable achievements, Salvatore was a master gardener and a self-taught artist, showcasing his talents in painting, woodcarving, and wood burning art. An avid golfer, he boasted an impressive three holes-in-one to his credit.

Salvatore is survived by his devoted wife of 72 years, Beverly Ann Leahy Della Ventura, and his loving children: Debra Ann and her husband Douglas Heywood, Nancy and her husband Dr. Kenneth Costa, Gayle and her husband Jeffrey Thomas. He leaves a lasting legacy through his grandchildren: Richard and his wife Danae Heywood, Kristen and her husband Christopher Pruitt, Michelle and her husband Joshua Bartlome, Michael and his wife Miriam Costa, Matthew Cillo, and Kelsey Cillo. Salvatore is also survived by ten great-grandchildren: Douglas, Henry, Kennedy, Harlowe, Joshua, Charlotte, Cody, Kara, Maxwell, and Wallace, as well as many more loving relatives and wonderful friends.

Salvatore will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to family, his service to the community, and his creative spirit. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.