In Loving Memory of Louis Salvatore

Louis Salvatore (lovingly known as Louie, Big Lou, Lou, Dad, and PopPop) passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, September 16th, 2025, surrounded by his devoted family. He was 79 years old, born on August 29th, 1946, in the Bronx, NY, and raised in Bergenfield, NJ.

Lou is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy Klucharits Salvatore, and their four daughters, along with their families: Julie and John Reiner, Amy and Pat Monahan (granddaughter, Jaclyn), Katherine Salvatore and Theresa and George Laoudis (grandsons: Alexander and Christian)

He also leaves behind his cherished pets, S’mores, Chip, and Chloe.

Louie was the eldest son of Domenic and Teresa Salvatore, who predeceased him. He was one of six siblings, leaving behind his brothers: Joe (Hanna) Salvatore and Domenick (Dawn) Salvatore, as well as brothers-in-law Jim (Trish) Klucharits, John (Jean) Klucharits, and Bob Lewer. He was predeceased by his siblings Christopher, Irene Lewer, and Susan. Louis also leaves a host of loved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

At the age of 16, Louie met the love of his life, Nancy Klucharits, while they both attended high school just across the brook and two blocks apart. They married on September 22, 1968, embarking on a beautiful journey together that spanned 57 wonderful years. Louis dedicated his professional life to the elevator industry, a field he was passionate about since the 1970s, working in New York City for several elevator companies. He was highly respected by his peers and received job offers well into his 70s, a testament to his strong work ethic and dedication.

Throughout their lives, Lou and Nancy resided in several areas, including Bergenfield, NJ; Commack, Long Island, NY; New City, NY; and Long Valley, NJ, ultimately settling in Manahawkin, NJ, at the time of his passing.

In earlier years, Louis could often be found in his garage, happily tinkering with various projects. His daughters knew exactly whom to turn to whenever they needed help untangling jewelry or changing watch batteries. He participated in a bowling league known as the Ball Busters during his younger days and relished fishing trips, spending many summers in Cape May and enjoying cruises. Louis mastered the family pizzelle recipe and delighted everyone with his delicious Pasta e Fagioli. His love for cars shone through his pride in owning a 1966 Chevelle Super Sport, and he held a special fondness for animals, especially his little rescue buddy, S’mores.

Louis had a passion for music and cherished going to concerts, car races, playing cards, and dining out with friends. He would enjoy his Root Beer and Costco Hot Dogs, and on occasion nightcap with Johnny Walker all colors. Above all, Lou loved his family and treasured every moment spent with his wife, daughters and grandchildren.

He was a warm and welcoming presence to all who knew him, often serving as the go-to person for advice and assistance. His calm demeanor offered solace in life’s storms, and his wisdom was a source of strength for his family. The enduring legacy of love shared between Louis and Nancy spans generations, weaving their families together and creating deep-rooted connections cherished by all.

As we navigate the days ahead, we kindly ask that you keep Nancy in your thoughts and prayers, as she will profoundly miss her beloved partner.

Visitation will take place on Tuesday, September 23, 2025 from 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm at Cochran Funeral Home, 905 High Street, Hackettstown, NJ 07840.

Funeral Mass will take place on Wednesday, September 24, 2025 at 10:30 am at St. Luke’s Parish, 265 West Mill Street, Long Valley, NJ 07853.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that you consider making a donation to one of the following charities that were dear to Lou’s heart:

Memorials may be made to Wounded Warriors Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675,
woundedwarriorproject.org or Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306, t2t.org

Thank you for your support during this difficult time. Please feel free to share this information with others who knew and loved Lou.

For those wishing to leave online condolences for the family please visit, www.cochranfuneral.com