Patrick Joseph Salandro, Patrick Joseph Salandro

Patrick Joseph Salandro of New Alexandria, Penn, formerly of Cedar Rapids, died Wednesday Aug. 26, 2009 in his home. Private family services will be held.

Survivors include his father, Carmine F. Salandro of New Alexandria, Penn.; sons, Patrick J. Salandro II and wife, Leanne M. of Santa Cruz, Calf., and Aaron M. Salandro of Cedar Rapids; and a daughter, Robin M. Carbone and husband, Christopher of San Jose, Calf. Also includes two grandchildren, and a large, extended family.

Preceded in death by a daughter, Christian M. Danella; and his mother, Mary A. (Marko) Salandro.

After arriving in California in 1963, Patrick worked as an assemblyman for Ford Motor Co. and then enjoyed a career selling jewelry in the San Francisco Bay area. He then joined the IBEW as a union electrician, and after retirement, returned to Pennsylvania to take care of his father, Carmine, who struggled with Alzheimer's. Patrick was his primary caregiver and this allowed him to remain in his home. Patrick took excellent care of his parents for the last several years, and their bond was evident as Carmine laughed and smiled whenever Patrick would give him a bear hug. Patrick's children fondly recall standing at his stove making tomato sauce, the aroma of garlic wafting through the house, camping trips to Jackson, swimming at Del Valle Reservoir, driving to Santa Cruz in his VW bug, ski trips to Tahoe, frantic but fun holiday dinners and lazy Sunday afternoons watching football.

John J. Lopatich Funeral Home, Inc. is handling arrangements.