Salvatore C. DiBella

Salvatore “Sal” Cosmo DiBella, 88, of Old Saybrook, joined his heavenly Father on Palm Sunday, April 13, 2014. He was born March 31, 1926, in New London, CT. He was the son of Luigi and Josephine DiBella. Salvatore is preceded in death by the love of his life and wife of 53 years, Joanne Agnello DiBella (2009), his parents, and his beloved brother-in-laws, Albert Wood and Dr. Giuseppe Agnello. Salvatore is survived by two sons, Michael L. DiBella, with Colleen (Sweeney) and their children Jacob and Maria, and Leonard DiBella, with his wife Barbara (Redway) and their children Michael T., Daniel, Matthew, Joseph, Julia, Thomas and Leo; two brothers, John and Frank DiBella, sister Josephine Wood, and sister-in-law Mariuccia Agnello. Sal was honored to be a Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus and a devoted parishioner at St. John Church in Old Saybrook, as well as a lifelong member of both the American Legion and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. Despite health issues as a youth, Salvatore proudly joined the US Army and served his country stateside during World War II at Fort Bragg, N.C. His patriotism and love for the military was unrivaled, and he was happy and blessed to see his oldest grandson, Michael T., recently promoted to Army Captain after serving in the Iraq War, and another grandson, Matthew, accepted into the Army ROTC program in Washington, DC. Salvatore attended Thomas Edison Junior College, Stone’s Business School, and The Culinary Institute of America.

Born and raised by Italian immigrant parents in the depression era, Sal developed an intense work ethic and strong faith early in life, which was exemplified throughout his many and rewarding years as an employer, husband, father and grandfather. Sal is best known as the driving force in the business started by his father in 1956, Luigi’s Restaurant, a landmark Italian eatery in Old Saybrook, CT that continues to be successfully run by Sal’s children and grandchildren. He will be happily remembered and sadly missed by scores of past and present employees, many of whom started lifelong relationships and careers under Sal’s benevolent guidance, and loyal customers who were witness to his constant generosity, humor, and dedicated service. Many a homeless transient found refuge and a free hot meal at Sal’s counter during his years at the restaurant. From celebrities to those less fortunate, he treated everyone as a special guest. Sal was also passionate about his pastimes. Even in his later years as his health declined, his fervor for his beloved Yankees never waned, nor did his willingness to participate in a friendly game of cards. For over half a century, day or night, friends and family were always warmly received in Sal and Joanne’s home, and shared great fun, great food, and much love. They were both selflessly devoted to their family, and adored by their nine grandchildren. Though his physical afflictions affected and weakened his body, Sal’s humor, affection, positive attitude and sound advice never diminished, even until the end. As difficult as it became, he would happily attend family functions, the price of his smiles being the hugs and kisses of his grandchildren. The passing of Salvatore leaves a final void in their lives that will never be filled, and he will be sorrowfully missed by all.

Calling hours will be 4 to 8 pm on Monday, April 21, at Swan’s Funeral Home in Old Saybrook, CT. A Mass of Christian Burial with military honors will be celebrated on Tuesday, April 22, at 10 am at St. John Church in Old Saybrook, CT, followed by internment at St. Mary Cemetery in New London, CT. Please visit www.swanfuneralhomeoldsaybrook.com for online condolences and tributes.