John W. Salamon

West Springfield-The Salamon family is profoundly saddened by the loss of John William Salamon, 88, of West Springfield, Massachusetts on February 23, 2025. John was born in Enfield, Connecticut, where he grew playing many sports. After high school he served in the U.S. Air Force where he attained the rank of Staff Sergeant and went on to receive degrees in Education Administration and History from American International College. Despite an invitation to play for the Green Bay Packers, John began his educational career at the West Springfield High School as a history teacher and assistant football coach. A devoted educator, he quickly ascended to the role of Principal of Mittineague Elementary School. John continued his administration career through the next four decades. Some of his accomplishments included writing educational grants, developing and overseeing the Piper Road sixth grade, received recognition from the America Red Cross for his use of lifesaving measures, and served as Principal for many local schools. John was a truly remarkable educator who found joy in guiding children’s curiosity and hunger for learning. An extraordinary person that made a lasting impact on the West Springfield community and on the countless children and families who benefited from his dedication and compassion. After his retirement in 1997, John Salamon remained deeply committed to the community, serving with dedication on multiple board committees and in service of giving back. He spent many years volunteering for Meals on Wheels and on the West Springfield Historical Society where he was a member of the board until his passing. John`s intellectual curiosity and interest in history were lifelong pursuits, and he loved to read. However, the most important thing to John was his 60+ year marriage to his cherished wife Anita, their son and grandchildren. His family brought him the most joy. John`s compassion, sharp wit and dry sense of humor brought joy to all those around him. John Salamon is survived by his loving wife, Anita Duquette Salamon, his beloved son, Nikolas J. Salamon, grand children Kathryn, Michael and Gabriela Salamon, granddaughter-in-law Melia Torgler Salamon, great grandson, Malakai Crotty, nieces Kelly Ann Moore and Anita Ann (Taylor) Moore, and her children Brendan and Brigid Taylor. A loyal husband, father and friend, he is deeply loved and will be profoundly missed. On March 10, 2025, relatives and friends are invited to attend calling hours at 10:30am-12:15pm at Toomey O’Brien Funeral Home, 1043 Westfield Street, in West Springfield. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12:45pm at St. Thomas Church, 47 Pine Street, in West Springfield, followed by the burial at the Massachusetts Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery in Agawam. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in his name and memory to the Association of American Educators ( http://www.aaeteachers.org ) or the Fund For Teachers ( http://www.fundforteachers.org ).