Eugene Salmonsen Obituary

Eugene "Sally" Salmonsen CHARLESTON - Eugene "Sally" Salmonsen, 87, died peacefully on October 29, 2013, with his wife by his side. He was born on October 16, 1926, in Charleston, SC, the son of Frank Joseph and Catherine Ellsworth Salmonsen. He graduated from Bishop England High School and continued his education at the Citadel. He was a World War II Veteran, serving aboard the aircraft carrier, the USS Randolph. After 42 years of civil service, he retired from the Charleston Naval Shipyard as Superintendent for the Module Maintenance Facility. He loved his country and was proud to have had the opportunity to serve. He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Sharon L. Salmonsen, his children, Gene R. Salmonsen, Jr. (Elaine), JoAnne McGee (Calvin), Mary Rollins (Gary), Sally Dey (Steve) and his step-children, Debi Cloes (Gordon), Michelle Keiffer, and Lonnie Flores (Marsi), as well as 12 grandchildren and a great-granddaughter. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Jackie Salmonsen and numerous nephews and nieces, including his special niece Barbara Roehm. He was predeceased by his son, Theodore J. Salmonsen, his brothers and sisters, Charles Salmonsen, Frank Salmonsen, Catherine Clifton, Betty Thelan, Anne Dantzler, Walter Salmonsen and Keith Salmonsen. Gene enjoyed traveling with his wife and walking in the morning with his buddies. He will be remembered for his kind, gentle, optimistic spirit and his brilliant mind. Gene disliked goodbyes and instead chose to say "wiedersehen" (until we meet again). He was a devoted husband and father and a mentor to his friends and family. He will be sadly missed by many. A memorial service will be held in his honor on Friday, November 1, from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm at McAlister-Smith Funeral Home, James Island Chapel, located at 347 Folly Road, Charleston, SC 29412. A reception will follow at 1679 East Ashley, Folly Beach, SC. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Nativity Catholic Church, 1061 Folly Rd, Charleston, SC 29412, or to the MUSC Heart or Vascular Center, C/O MUSC Foundation, 18 Bee Street, MSC 450, Charleston, SC 29425. Online condolences can be sent to www.mcalister-smith.com. Visit our guestbook at www.legacy.com/obituaries/ charleston