Obituary of Mark John Salerno

Mark John Salerno Mark John Salerno, 53, of Rome passed away on Thursday, November 7, 2013, at Upstate University Hospital, Syracuse. He was born in Rome, NY, son of the late Dr. Michael C. Salerno and Mary Giansanti Salerno. Mark was a graduate of Rome Free Academy and LeMoyne College. Mark worked at Metropolitan Life for over 20 years as a long term disability claims adjuster. He cared deeply about the many claimants who were benefitted by his careful handling of their cases. He understood what it meant to live and work with a disability and translated that to his work helping others. Mark had a spark for life, humor and sports that brought laughter and fun to all who knew him. His co-workers at Met Life will miss his "Happy Dance". His friends will miss his twinkling eyes and playful antics. His family will miss his generous and caring love. All will miss his heart of gold. Surviving besides his mother, Mary Salerno Rome, are a brother and sister-in-law David and Leah Salerno, Chattanooga,TN, a sister and brother-in-law Elena and Steve Flash, Ithaca, five cherished nieces and nephews, Christina, Michelle, Michael and his wife Silvia, Stephanie and Ned as well as numerous cousins and friends. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, November 11, 2013 at 11:30 a.m. at St John the Baptist Church with the Rev. Paul F. Angelicchio officiating. Burial will be in St. John the Baptist Cemetery. There are no calling hours. Arrangements are by the Nicholas J. Bush Funeral Home, Inc., 218 W. Court St. Mark loved skiing and to honor his passion, in lieu of flowers or cards, donations may be made to the Woods Valley Alpine Ski Race Foundation, PO Box 4703, Rome New York, 13440 to provide funds for children who could not otherwise experience the fun and beauty of the sport that he so loved. To offer online condolences, please visit www.njbushfuneralhome.com.