Salvatore Bonina, of Fairfield, Conn., passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on Friday, January 23, 2026, after a courageous battle with a prolonged illness. He was 68. Sal was born on April 29, 1957, in Stamford to the late Catherine (Giamba) and Leonard Bonina.
Sal attended Stamford Catholic High School and later graduated from Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston, Mass. He began his career as a general contractor working alongside his father at Bonina Construction before dedicating more than 20 years to Deluca Construction, where he managed countless projects throughout Stamford and the surrounding communities — work he took great pride in.
On April 26, 1986, Sal married the love of his life, Colleen (Sheridan). Their marriage was a beautiful partnership, marked by devotion, laughter and nearly 40 inseparable years together. They raised four children and were blessed with six cherished grandchildren.
Above all else, Sal valued time with his family. He was deeply present in the lives of his children — faithfully attending every Irish dance competition for his daughters and proudly cheering from the sidelines at every baseball and football game for his son. As “Papa,” Sal found his greatest joy simply being with his grandchildren, reading stories, playing games and delighting in each of their unique personalities.
Sal was known for his extraordinary positivity and gratitude for life, no matter the circumstances. His engaging storytelling, quick wit, and easygoing nature made him a joy to be around. He loved life’s simple pleasures and was happiest in the company of those he loved most.
In addition to his beloved wife, Colleen, Sal is survived by his children: Michelle Bonina Sauer (Geoff) of Fairfield; Christine Avallon (David) of Easton; Lisa Travisano (Nicolas) of North Haven; and Leonard Bonina of Milford. He was a devoted grandfather to Evan and Jack Sauer; Theo Avallon; and Mia, Ella, and Nicolas “Nico” Salvatore Travisano.
Sal is also survived by his sisters, Felicia Carriero (Stephen) and Mariangela Maffucci (Keith); his brother-in-law, Thomas Maffucci; his mother-in-law, Agnes Sheridan; his sister-in-law, Deidre Orsino (Paul); his brothers-in-law, Terrence Sheridan and George Sheridan (Karen); and many loving cousins, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and by his father-in-law, George Sheridan.
Family and friends are invited to attend visitation on Wednesday, Jan. 28, from 3 to 7 p.m. at Thomas M. Gallagher Funeral Home, 104 Myrtle Avenue, Stamford, Conn. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, Jan. 29, at 10:30 a.m. at Sacred Heart Church, 37 Schuyler Avenue, Stamford, Conn. Interment will follow at St. John Cemetery in Darien, Conn.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Sal’s memory to Smilow Cancer Hospital. The family also wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Francine Foss and the entire medical team for their exceptional care and compassion.
Donations may be directed to:
Yale New Haven Hospital
Office of Development
PO Box 419176
Boston, MA 02241-9176
Phone: 203-688-9644
Services are under the care of Thomas M. Gallagher Funeral Home. For online condolences, visit Gallagherfuneralhome.com.
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