Holly MatkinLodi, NJ – Lodi Police Department (LPD) Captain Robert Salerno died on Dec. 19 after a battle against cancer.
The 55-year-old captain had previously been diagnosed with liver cancer, the Garfield-Lodi Daily Voice reported.
He spent more than three decades of his life serving his community.
“It is with extreme grief and sadness that the Lodi Police Department informs you of the passing of active duty and senior officer, Captain Robert Salerno #112,” the LPD said in a Facebook post on Dec. 19. “Captain Salerno was the Division Commander of our Records Bureau, and served the residents of Lodi faithfully for 32 years.”
In addition to his work with the LPD, Capt. Salerno was also a past member and volunteer for the Lodi Volunteer Ambulance and Rescue Squad and the Lodi Fire Department.
“Salerno had a vast knowledge of law enforcement, procedures and protocols, and could name something or someone from memory far quicker than anyone,” the department’s post read. “To say the least, the loss of our friend and mentor will leave a huge hole in our department as well as our hearts.”
LPD Chief Donald Scorzetti said Capt. Salerno has been “the heart and soul of this department” for well over 30 years, the Bergen Record reported.
“He loves the Lodi Police Department and all with whom he has worked with. It is going to be impossible to fill his shoes,” Chief Scorzetti said.
Capt. Salerno leaves behind his wife, Francine, as well as his children, Samantha, Steven, and Scott, according to his obituary.
He is also survived by his siblings, in-laws, and many friends and extended family members.
“We ask that you pray for Capt. Salerno, the Salerno family, and his friends during this extreme loss and hardship. We at the PD are simply devastated at the loss of our colleague and friend. May you Rest In Peace sir. We will take it from here,” the LPD said.
Capt. Salerno will be laid to rest Dec. 23.
With sad hearts we send our deepest condolences to the Lodi Police Department and the family of Captain Robert Salerno.
Captain Salerno served the residents of Lodi for 32 years… pic.twitter.com/MOZtxmB7jg— NJ TRANSIT POLICE (@NJTransitPolice) December 21, 2021
The @EdgewaterPolice would like to send our deepest condolences to the family and colleagues of Captain Robert Salerno of the Lodi Police Department. We honor his public service. Rest in Peace. #lodipolicedepartment pic.twitter.com/ttA4Ul8mCF
— Edgewater Police Department, New Jersey (@EdgewaterPolice) December 21, 2021
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Lodi Police Department Captain Robert Salerno, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
