Sal Demartino San Diego CA Obituary, Death: Salvatore “Sal” DeMartino, a beloved friend, brother, and son, tragically passed away at a young age, leaving a void in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His passing, while heart-wrenching, is met with a profound sense of gratitude for the way he touched the lives of others, from his family to his many friends across the country. Sal’s journey was filled with moments of joy, laughter, and unforgettable adventures.
His genuine spirit, larger-than-life personality, and the connections he made with people are what we will remember most about him. Sal was born and raised in Levittown, New York, a place where his infectious personality first began to take shape. From his earliest years, he exhibited a warmth and energy that made him stand out. His ability to make friends easily, his relentless positivity, and his natural athleticism were all part of what made Sal, well, Sal.
He grew up in an environment filled with love, laughter, and a sense of community, which stayed with him throughout his life. After completing his education at Island Trees High School, Sal continued to pursue his passions at Johnson & Wales University (JWU) in Rhode Island. It was there that Sal’s character truly began to flourish. The relationships he built during his time at JWU, especially his friendship with Dane Tomanek, were some of the most meaningful of his life.
These friendships would become the foundation of his adult years, as he later moved to San Diego, California, where he lived and worked in the vibrant community of Pacific Beach. One of the most significant relationships in Sal’s life was his deep and enduring friendship with Dane Tomanek, a friendship that began in the early days of their college years. Dane, in a heartfelt message of remembrance, shared the impact that Sal had on him and others, and how their bond shaped his life.
“Still can’t believe this is real, Sal,” Dane began, in a tribute that captured the essence of their friendship. “Since day one, we met freshman year at JWU in college playing a pickup football game right on the grass at Gaebe Commons. We were going head to head against each other, and everyone was afraid to tackle you, but I wasn’t haha, you respected me for that.” Dane fondly remembers that first encounter, when they both competed fiercely but laughed just as hard. Their first meeting set the tone for the deep friendship that followed.
It was during that game that Sal, with his signature humor, remarked, “I knew there was serious competition in flow when you walked on the field.” This playful comment became an inside joke and was a moment that both friends would never forget. It wasn’t just their shared love for sports and competitiveness that solidified their friendship; it was the way they made each other laugh and felt completely at ease around one another. As Dane continued, “We met up later at that party playing beer pong and couldn’t stop laughing around each other ever since.
Literally, we wouldn’t have to say anything and just crack up.” Their connection transcended typical college friendships. They found joy in the simplest of moments, like playing games together, hanging out with mutual friends, and going on spontaneous adventures. Sal’s energy and infectious laugh could light up any room. It was clear that for Dane, Sal wasn’t just a friend—he was a brother. Their bond was genuine, built on respect, humor, and mutual understanding.
Sal was known for his love of adventure. Whether it was surfing with the boys in California or enjoying random outings, Sal was always the one who brought excitement and energy to any situation. He was the type of person who saw the world as an adventure waiting to unfold, and he embraced life with an open heart. Sal’s travels and experiences were often shared with close friends, and many of his happiest memories were made while enjoying the great outdoors and exploring new places.
Dane recalls one memorable moment when they discovered an unexpected connection. “When we got home for our Thanksgiving break, you found out your best friend Chris lived next door to my close buddy Brad,” he shared. “I think you walked into Chris’s when we were all hanging saying, ‘Wtf bro, how do you know Dane?!’ Hahah, such a small world.” It was moments like these that made their friendship even more special, and Sal’s ability to connect with others seemed almost magical.
One of the highlights of their friendship was Sal’s love for Pacific Beach, where he had made his home. Dane fondly remembers visiting Sal in San Diego, reflecting on the great times they shared together in that beautiful coastal city. “It was really fun recently visiting you in Pacific Beach, CA, and then locally at home. I’m so glad I got to see you one last time,” Dane said.
Sal’s presence was always felt deeply, whether he was surrounded by friends or on a solo adventure. His energy was magnetic, and he made people feel at ease in his presence. In many ways, he was the glue that held his friend group together, and his absence has left a space that will be hard to fill. As we reflect on Sal’s life, it’s impossible not to recognize the incredible legacy he leaves behind. Sal was more than just a friend; he was a person who genuinely cared for those around him.
His loyalty and deep love for his friends and family were some of his most defining qualities. Sal made a point to let the people he loved know how much they meant to him. Whether it was a heartfelt text, a spontaneous visit, or a simple “I love you,” Sal always made time for those who mattered to him. The outpouring of love and remembrance following his passing is a testament to the kind of person Sal was. He touched so many lives, and his positive impact will continue to be felt by all who had the honor of knowing him.
From his playful spirit to his unwavering support for his friends, Sal was the kind of person you could always count on. Dane’s tribute captures this essence perfectly: “You’re hands down one of the best guys I’ve ever known. You said I was like a brother to you and vice versa. I’ll never forget it.” Sal had an incredible ability to make those around him feel like they were part of something special, and it is that spirit of brotherhood, loyalty, and love that will live on in the hearts of those who knew him best.
In his final words, Dane expressed the love and admiration that will continue to live on in the memories of everyone who loved Sal: “I hope you’re in a better place now and raging it up like you deserve. I’ll miss you, bro, love you. His energy, his laughter, his loyalty, and his love will live on in the countless lives he touched. Sal, you were a light in this world, and that light will continue to shine brightly through the memories you leave behind. You may no longer be with us physically, but your spirit will always be a part of our lives. Rest in peace, Sal DeMartino. You will forever be missed, but never forgotten.
