Salvatore Joseph Collura

Salvatore “Sal” J. Collura

of Frankfort, passed away October 12, 2019, just six days before his 103^rd birthday.  He was born on October 18, 1916 in Sicily, Italy as the son of Joseph and Josephine Collura.  At an early age, he, with his mother and two sisters, moved to New York City to be with Josephine’s family after his father, Joseph, passed away in Italy.  In New York City he worked at many different jobs including a silver plating factory, as a mechanic, as a photographer and as a musician in a band.  In 1956, he moved to Indianapolis and married Mary (Bishop) Collura.

He served in the U.S. Army during World War II and was stationed in Okinawa, Japan.

Salvatore Collura was an accomplished musician, a professional photographer and worked at Channel 4 WTTV for twenty years as the primary photographer and news reporter.

One of his greatest loves was his music.  He was a member of a band called ‘The Fashioneers’ which was organized in 1957 and played in Indianapolis and the Marion County area for over fifty years.  Sal played several instruments including the mandolin, harmonica, banjo, guitar and guitorgan (a guitar that has the sounds of an organ).

Salvatore was also a strong supporter of the YMCA; joining the Indianapolis chapter in 1947. He worked out there regularly through 2012.

His last 3 ½ years was spent as a resident of Wesley Manor Retirement Community in Frankfort, Indiana close to his nephew, Dave Little, and Dave’s wife, Suzy.

Sal is survived by his daughter, Diane (Ed) Brewer; grandchildren: Elizabeth Brewer, Edward Brewer; niece, Christine Little; nephews: David Little, John Little, Paul Little, Joseph Vitadamo, and George Vitadamo.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Mary Collura (Bishop); and nephew, Anthony Vitadamo.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, October 20, 2019, from 10am-12pm at Flanner Buchanan – Washington Park East, 10722 E. Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN 46229.  Calling will be from 10am to 12pm and the service will begin at 12pm with military honors.

In lieu of flowers, Sal requested donations be made to the Wesley Manor Employee Appreciation Fund, 1555 North Main Street, Frankfort, Indiana 46041-1167, in appreciation for the excellent and loving care he received from the nurses and staff at Wesley Manor.