On May 25, 2025, Salvatore J. D'Aquino, known fondly to all as Sal, passed away unexpectedly but peacefully, a few months shy of his 87th birthday. Sal was born in Brooklyn, NY, on August 20, 1938 to Joseph D'Aquino and Philomena (Fannie) Masucci.
Sal graduated from Niagara University in 1963 with a degree in Business. A real-life "Norm," he loved being around people and would talk to anyone, anywhere. He was happiest at the beach -- preferably on Cape Cod -- with a beer and a bag of pretzels. He was great with kids and took endless pride in his own kids and grandkids, as well as the many he "adopted" along the way. As with many Sicilians, you didn't want to cross him but he'd give you the shirt off his back if you needed it.
He loved spending time with his devoted partner of many years, Betty; playing cards; and talking long-distance with his many cousins, his best friend Rene, and his Niagara buddies. Nothing made him happier than arguing with any of them about anything. His one regret leaving NY and moving to Florida in 1996 meant seeing them far less over the years.
He was a devoted Rangers and Giants fan, and never quite gave up on his beloved Brooklyn Dodgers (only out of necessity did he become a Mets fan, and if you were a Yankees fan you were banned from the house.)
Sal is survived by his daughter, Jackie (Dan); his son Michael (Kristen); and grandchildren Anya, Katie, and Jake. He is also survived by his beloved Betty Dodt, as well as Betty's children, Theresa (George) and Jennifer (Brian); and grandchildren Robbie (deceased), Sarah, Max, Frannie, and CeCe. Betty and her family brought love and laughter into Sal's life for nearly 30 years. Sal cherished them as much as his biological children and grandchildren.
Sal's children will celebrate Sal's life privately at a future date on Cape Cod. Please remember him with love in your own way.
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street West, Bradenton, FL 34209, is in charge of arrangements.
