Salvatore “Sal” Chines, 80, of South Yarmouth and formerly of Medford, MA, passed away peacefully on March 2, 2025 surrounded by his loving family. He was predeceased by his parents, Santo Chines and Lucy (Fazio) Chines; his devoted wife of 52 years, Mariena (Gerokoulis) Chines; his son, Peter Santo Chines; his sister, Mary (Chines) Bettinelli; and his cherished companions, Angel and Bella. Sal is survived by his son, Anthony Chines and his wife Lynn of Mashpee, MA; his daughter, Maria Claffey and her husband George of Newington, CT; and his adored grandchildren, Ryan and Caitlin, who brought immeasurable joy to his life. Sal also leaves behind his brother, Peter Chines and wife Susan of Haverhill, MA, and his sister, Martha Giovenelli of Naples, FL.
Sal and Mariena’s story began when they met in their high school band, sparking both a love for each other and for music that would last a lifetime. They ultimately fulfilled their retirement dream by moving to Cape Cod. An accomplished French horn player, Sal was actively involved in numerous local ensembles, including The Brewster Band, the Cape Community Orchestra, the Cape Cod Concert Band, the Sandwich Band, the Barnstable Band, and the Brentwood Brass. His passion for music allowed him to forge deep friendships and share the gift of music with audiences throughout the community.
After graduating from Lowell Technological Institute (now UMASS Lowell) in 1966 with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Sal embarked on a 30-year career as an Executive Engineer in fire protection at Industrial Risk Insurers (IRI). A dedicated and diligent worker, he took pride in his profession, earning the respect of colleagues and clients alike. He spent more than a decade as an adjunct professor at Central Connecticut State University lecturing on Fire Protection and Prevention. Despite his busy career, Sal always prioritized family and community, devoting his free time to nurturing those around him.
Sal was known for his gentle spirit, generosity, and genuine warmth. He found joy in life’s simple pleasures—tending to his garden, crafting homemade wine, genealogy, and working on puzzles with his children. Whether cheering on his grandchildren’s activities or finding lost relatives, Sal’s greatest happiness was being with those he loved. He was an integral part of many lives, and his kind nature and ready smile will be deeply missed.
Funeral service will be conducted in the Dello Russo Funeral Home, 306 Main Street, Medford, MA at 10 AM on Friday, March 7, 2025. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend and may visit with the family from 9 AM through 10AM. Services will conclude with interment at Oak Grove Cemetery in Medford.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent in Salvatore’s name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memorials Processing, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959.