Harvey A. Salo, 81
Was U.S. veteran; served Ashburnham as call firefighter

ASHBURNHAM - Harvey A. "Buddy" Salo, 81, of 8 Puffer St., died Thursday, Nov. 30, 2006, in Heywood Hospital, Gardner, following complications from open heart surgery in July.

He was born in Winchendon on June 4, 1925, the son

of the late Arvid and Hilma (Salminen) Salo and lived in Ashburnham nearly all his life.

He entered the United States Navy in 1943, proudly serving his country during World War II. He was discharged in 1946 and three years later married his beloved wife, Avis M. (Walcott) Salo. Just one week ago they celebrated 55 years of marriage together.

For 39 years, Mr. Salo was employed with the F.W. Lombard Co. of South Ashburnham and for 11 years he served Ashburnham as a call firefighter, retiring as Lieutenant in 1958.

He was a life member of the Ashburnham Community Church in Ashburnham and a life member and Past Commander of both the Ashburnham Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Thomas P. Sweeney Post 142 American Legion of Ashburnham. He was a member of the Ashburnham Firefighters Association and while his children were in school, he was active in their Parent Teacher Associations and the Oakmont Music Parents Association. At one time, he enjoyed building model ships and he also enjoyed reading and watching television. He was an enthusiastic sports fan, always ready to cheer on the Boston Red Sox.

Besides his wife, Avis M. (Walcott) Salo of Ashburnham; he leaves one son, Robert W. Salo of Ashburnham; three daughters, Louise S. Piquette and Gerry F. Charland, both of Gardner, and Carolyn J. Salter of Winchendon; 12 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by one grandson, Matthew Perry of Fairview, who died in 1971; and two brothers, Carl Salo and Wesley Salo, both of Ashburnham.

For those who wish to make a memorial contribution in honor of Mr. Salo, the family has asked that you consider the Gordon Erickson Fire Rescue Fund, c/o Ashburnham Fire Department, 3 Central St., Ashburnham, MA 01430.

Lamoureux-Fletcher Community Funeral Home of Gardner directed arrangements.