Judith M. Salamacha

Judith M. Salamacha of the Town of Burlington, NY died peacefully on July 20, 2025, from complications due to stroke. Judy was born on April 18, 1945, to Maxine and James Arduengo in Tampa, FL. She was the oldest of seven children.

She graduated from Sacred Heart Academy in Tampa, in 1963. She later earned her LPN certificate and practiced at Women's Hospital in the maternity ward.

In April 1965, she married her first husband William Eaton Buie Jr. (deceased February 17, 1977.)  They had two children, William "Paul" Buie and Laura Ann Ash.

On September 2,1978 she married the love of her life, Richard Karl Salamacha. She often spoke of their travels together, especially the trips they took to Alaska. They eventually settled in the Town of Burlington, NY in 1999.

Early in life Judy was an avid fisherwoman (she won the Tampa Tarpon Tournament in 1972 after landing a 118-pound fish while only weighing 105 pounds herself), she also loved the beach, cooking, games, shooting pool, her dogs, travelling, music, the Yankees, crossword puzzles, and spending time with her family. At Cooperstown Center she enjoyed bingo, concerts, pottery classes, painting and friends. Judy's quick wit and joyful spirit filled our family with laughter. Her humor was a gift we will always cherish.

Judy is survived by her spouse, Richard Salamacha, son Paul Buie, daughter Laura Ash, grandchildren, Sean Ash, Joel Ash, Josh Buie, Kate Ash and Zander Buie, her sister Nancy Arduengo and her brother Steven Arduengo and multiple nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, sisters Paula Stoltenborg, and Susan Arduengo, and brothers Michael and Pat Arduengo.

The family would like to extend their deepest and heartfelt gratitude to the administration and staff at Cooperstown Centers. Judy was a resident there for seven years. We want to thank the CNAs, nurses, speech therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, activities personnel, kitchen staff and leadership team who all gave Judy the best quality of life possible. Judy was the light of the Center rewarding everyone she saw with a wave and a smile.

Private celebrations of life will be held at dates to be determined. If so desired, a donation to Cooperstown Centers Activities Department can be made in Judy's memory and may be mailed to 128 Phoenix Mills Road, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Or instructions for a donation to Helios Care (Hospice) can be found at www.helioscare.org.