Salvatore T. Tirone, Sr.

U.S. Army
1943 - 1946
WW II

Salvatore T. Tirone Sr. was born in Port Richmond on January 24, 1921 to Carmelo and Mary Tirone. He was the oldest of 5 siblings, Joseph, Concetta, Carmela and Louis. His father, Carmelo Tirone’s shoe repair business was one of the founding stores on Port Richmond Ave. The corner of New Street and Port Richmond Ave is dedicated in Carmelo Tirone’s honor.

A graduate of Ralph R. McKee High School, Sal Tirone worked at the Bethlehem Steel Shipyard before serving in World War II, from 1943-1946 as a technical sergeant in the 7th Army, 253rd Combat Engineers. He served a year and a half in France and Germany. After returning from the service Sal and his brothers, Joseph and Louis, opened Tirone’s Shoe Store in Port Richmond which remained in business for 62 years.
He was also co-owner, with his brothers, of Babgold Shoe Corp. and Stillers in N.J.He was a member of the Mariners Harbor Post VFW where he served as Commander. He belonged to the LaGuardia Lodge of Masons and was also a past president of the LaGuardia Square Club. He headed the administration of Christ United Methodist Church and was on the church’s finance committee and board of trustees.

He enjoyed bowling and softball. Some of his fondest times were when he was out on the dance floor. Mr. Tirone was happiest when spending time in the company of his family during the holidays and at backyard barbecues. Those who knew Sal looked forward to celebrating at his milestone birthday parties, which always culminated in marching with the American flag to the fight songs of the armed forces.
Salvatore was married to the former Rose LaFata for 60 years and settled in Westerleigh to raise their 4 children, Marie (Kenneth Sr.), Salvatore Jr. (Cyndye), Carol (Phillip) and Linda (Charles). His legacy lives on in his seven grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. Salvatore passed away on November 10, 2020, 2 months shy of his 100th birthday.

Sponsored by The Tirone Family