Obituary of Rudolph P. Salvagni

Rudolph “Rudy” Salvagni, 93, of Canajoharie passed away peacefully Sunday at his home. Rudy was born in St. Johnsville, NY on October 26, 1926, the son of the late Paolo and Adelgesia Salvagni. Rudy graduated from St. Johnsville High School in 1944 and then served in the Navy, receiving Honorable Discharge on August 21, 1946. Rudy graduated from Albany Business College with a degree in Accounting.

 

Rudy spent many years playing on the St. Johnsville and Canajoharie Town Baseball teams. An exceptional athlete and St. Johnsville legend, who earned the nickname of “Mighty Mouse.”  Rudy was well known for his major athletic talent, especially on the baseball diamond roaming Centerfield. Along with being a stellar athlete, he was a determined hard-worker and even better family man.

 

Rudy met the love of his life, Rose Marie Ianniello, during one of his baseball games. You couldbe sure that wherever Rudy was, his one true love Rose Marie was not far behind calling the shots. Rudy knew from the day he saw his beloved Rose Marie he would marry her. They loved to dance at Sherman’s in Caroga Lake and sing along to some of their favorites, such as Bobby Vinton, Tony Bennett and Frank Sinatra. On August 29, 1951, Rudy married Rose Marie at the St. Peter and Paul’s Catholic Church in Canajoharie. 

 

Rudy was employed by Palatine Dyeing Company, Fowler Finishing and Life Savers as an accountant.  Most, however, remember him as “The Boss” of Ernie’s Bar & Grill alongside his dearest Rose Marie. Rudy was a familiar face to all who frequented Ernie’s, especially during his bartending shift on Saturday nights, or when he would randomly pop in to ensure things were running up to his expectations. You could always catch him at Ernie’s Super Bowl, Thanksgiving Eve and New Years Eve parties.

 

Above all else, Rudy was a devoted family man.  He was a world class Husband, Father, Papa, Uncle and Friend.  His family was always his pride and joy.  Rudy was a well-known “Superfan” of Canajoharie Athletics throughout his grandson’s playing days from Little League to Varsity. Known as “Papa Rudy” to many, he treated all of their teammates like family. Rudy was loved by all that knew him and many looked to him as an extended Father and Grandfather. He loved to play Golf, winning a Club Championship at the Canajoharie Country Club, and was an avid New York Yankees fan.

 

Rudy was predeceased by his parents, Paolo and Adelgesia Salvagni; brothers, Florito Salvagni (Ester) and Louis Salvagni (Susi); sister, Lola Lesa (Michael); brother-in-law, Angelo Ianniello; sister-in-law, Ella Mae Ianniello; and his beloved wife, Rose Marie Salvagni.

 

He is survived by his daughter, Sherri Hodge (David); grandchildren, Joshua Hodge (Lindsey) and Ryan Hodge (Kendal Robbins); and great grandchildren, Romey and Josie Hodge. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends who were all loved dearly.

 

Funeral services will be private at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canajoharie Volunteer Fire Department (75 Erie Blvd., Canajoharie, NY 13317) or the Ayres Memorial Animal Shelter (133 Hilltop Rd, Sprakers, NY 12166).

 

On behalf of his family, to our treasured, Rudy: You will always be our Hero and a Legend in the eyes of many. We thank you for all the wonderful memories, guidance, laughter, and love. Although you may have faced your final curtain, your legacy will live on forever. Heroes get remembered but Legends never die.

 

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Lenz & Betz Funeral Home.  Please visit the online memorial at www.brbsfuneral.com

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