Charlton: Albert W. Salonis, Sr., 83, of Old Worcester Rd., passed away peacefully on Thursday, Dec. 1st, in Overlook Masonic Health Care, Charlton, after an illness.

His beloved wife and best friend of 61 years, Irene V. (Tremblay) Salonis passed away in 2021.  He leaves his son, Albert W. "Al" Salonis, Jr. and his wife Theresa E. Salonis of Dudley; his daughter, Sherry A. Jovan and her husband John D. "Jack" Jovan, Jr of Southbridge; five grandchildren, John D. Jovan III of Southbridge, Erin I. Hannon of Clinton, Albert W. Salonis III and Joseph P. Salonis of Dudley and Krysta L. Nozzolillo of North Grosvenordale, CT; his two great grandchildren, Evelyn L. Jovan and Lucca Q. Nozzolillo; many nieces and nephews. Albert will be greatly missed by his caregiver and best buddy, Glenn that he lovingly nicknamed "Curly".  Albert was predeceased by two brothers, John J. Salonis, Jr, Roger W. Salonis and a sister, Irene A. Beede.

Albert was born in Worcester the son of John J. and Irene (Shea) Salonis, Sr.

He worked for many years as a van driver for South Central Rehabilitation.  Albert always showed up for his kids' and grandkids' school and sporting events; affectionately known as "Papa" always cheering and proudly telling everyone, "That's my granddaughter!!!" "That's my grandson!!!".  He loved fishing, camping, old cars, bird watching and especially his dogs.  He also was an avid Red Sox fan, enjoyed a fine seafood meal and loved dancing with his beautiful wife Irene, as if they were floating across the dance floor.  He was a consummate story teller and practical joker. All this said, his greatest joy was always found spending time with his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. May he now rest in eternal peace with his beloved wife Irene.

The family would like to thank the caregivers on the 4th floor Skilled Nursing unit at The Overlook for their support, comfort and loving care which they showed not only to Albert, but also his entire family.

Albert's funeral Mass will be on Monday, Dec. 12th, at 11:00am in St. Joseph's Church, 10 H. Putnam Rd. Ext., Charlton.  Burial in St. Mary's Cemetery, Southbridge, will be at the convenience of the family.  Calling hours in the Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge will be held on Sunday, Dec. 11th, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm.  An additional calling hour will be held on Monday, Dec. 12 ^th , from 10:00 am to 11:00 am in St. Joseph's Church, Charlton, prior to the Mass.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Albert's name to the St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry, c/o St. John Paul II Parish, 279 Hamilton St., Southbridge, MA 01550.