Ray Saluga, of White Plains, died on November 5, 2021, after suffering a major stroke. He was born on May 20, 1953, growing up in NYC, attending Most Precious Blood Elementary and Mater Christi HS in Astoria. Ray left the city for Marist College in Poughkeepsie, and thereafter lived in Dutchess and Westchester counties.
Ray loved and played a number of sports in younger years, excelling particularly as a leader in roller hockey. A lifelong New York fan, his favorite teams were the Yankees and Rangers. As an adult, he enjoyed working as an independent contractor who developed a reputation as a hard-working, trusted, honest, and reliable co-worker. One could also see these attributes in his roles as a son, brother, companion, cousin, godfather, uncle, nephew, and friend. As several relatives observed Ray “was the glue for everyone”, keeping in touch and connecting with all members of his extended families and friends, making numerous phone calls and/or visits, especially on holidays and birthdays.
Ray was extremely independent and private, but quite loyal to his several circles of friends and family. He was admired by all as one who had a heart of gold, a smile of pure joy, and a kindness that extended to everyone he loved; his fierce determination, grit, and dogged work ethic are worthy of praise and respect.
Ray’s passing has greatly saddened his family members, friends, and colleagues. A time for them to gather and share memories of Ray will be held at the WESTCHESTER FUNERAL HOME, 190 MAIN STREET, EASTCHESTER, NY on Thursday, December 2, 2021, from 4:00-7:00pm. A later celebration of Ray’s life will be held in early 2022.
The family would ask anyone who wishes to make a donation to send such to the Calvary Fund, Inc. (Tree of Life), noting “in memory of Raymond Saluga”. The address is 1740 Eastchester Road, Bronx, NY 10461. Online donations can be made at https://www.calvaryhospital.org/ and click on Donate at the top right corner.