Salvatore John Calabrese

Salvatore John Calabrese, fondly known as Sal, left a legacy of dedication, hard work, and love that will forever be cherished. Born on Easter Sunday, March 31, 1929, in White Plains, New York, to Domenick and Flavia Calabrese, Sal's journey on this earth concluded on March 23, 2024, in Dallas, Texas, at the age of 94.

Sal embarked on a journey of learning and service early in his life beginning at White Plains High School, where he delivered the Salutatorian address, earning a $200 scholarship that enabled him to pursue his passion for civil engineering at Purdue University, where he earned both his bachelor's and master's degrees. In 1952, he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Air Force, proudly serving his country until 1957, stationed in Fairbanks, Alaska, and Topeka, Kansas. He remained in the reserves as a Captain until 1967.

Following his military service, Sal ventured into the world of engineering, marking the beginning of a multifaceted career. He worked with dedication and painstaking detail at various positions, including Manager of Engineers for Cadre Consultants, contributing to the growth of numerous projects. Sal's expertise extended to construction, where he played a pivotal role in building hotels for Days Inn and serving as a heavy hauling engineer for American Rigging.

On February 3, 1962, Sal exchanged vows with the love of his life, Jackie Williams, forming a partnership built on love, respect, and desires of raising a family of their own built on their shared strong Catholic faith. Together, they navigated life's joys and challenges, raising four children who were the pride and joy of their lives: Richard Calabrese, Christine Cismoski, Dominick Calabrese, and Julie Acuna.

Sal's work ethic and duty to provide for his family led him down various paths, including owning and operating several businesses from auto repair and manufacturing to retail outlets beginning with the purchase of The Country Cupboard which he convinced his wife Jackie to run as a means of “tiding them over” until he landed another engineering job. The success of The Country Cupboard, which had become a family business, led to purchasing The Coffee and Tea Trading Company, where he discovered a new passion for coffee. His love for the coffee business culminated in the proud ownership and operation of Addison Coffee Roasters, a true testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Sal was a skilled carpenter, helping build 4 family homes in Miami to crafting the retail fixtures and furniture found in his stores with precision and care. His hands brought to life creations that will continue to stand as a testament to his attention to detail, craftsmanship and ingenuity.

In his retirement years, Sal continued to inspire those around him with his zest for knowledge and unwavering work ethic. His love for family was his greatest strength, giving him amazing energy during the last phase of his life and a legacy that will be instilled in all that knew him.

Sal will be deeply missed by his beloved wife Jackie and their four children. He was preceded in death by his parents, Domenick and Flavia Calabrese, his brothers Tindaro and sister-in-law Rose, Giuseppe Calabrese, his sisters Antoinette Keys and brother-in-law Jim, Josephine Muhart and brother-in-law Eugene, his niece Jeanette Mehler, great nephew CJ Calabrese and his granddaughter Kelly Ann Calabrese.

Sal leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication, cherished by his fourteen grandchildren: Kelly, Emily, Anthony, Amy, Megan, Ethan, Gavin, Dominick J., Lainey, Morgan, Isabelle, Alexander "Zander," Sophie, and Natalie. Each one a testament to the profound impact he had on their lives.

Sal is survived by his beloved wife, Jackie, his children, their spouses Sally Calabrese, Greg Cismoski, Melinda Calabrese and Alex Acuna, the grandchildren, and a host of relatives and friends who will continue to honor his memory through their lives. May his soul find eternal peace in heaven, knowing that he touched the lives of many and left the world a better place. In honoring Sal's memory, let us celebrate his remarkable life, his unwavering spirit, and the countless lives he touched along his journey. Though he may have bid farewell to this world, his legacy will endure in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A memorial to commemorate Sal's life will be held on April 4, 2024, at 2pm at All Saints Catholic Church, 5231 Meadowcreek Dr., Dallas, TX 75248 with Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers please make donations to The Pat Doherty Memorial Fund : https://thenetwork.org/pat-doherty-memorial-fund/