Frederick G. Salerno, 74, of Bolivar Drive, passed away peacefully at his residence Saturday (May 23, 2026), surrounded by the love of his family.

Born Dec. 30, 1951, in Bradford, he was one of three children born to the late Bruno F. and Adele M. Guelfi Salerno. He was a proud 1969 graduate of Bradford High School.

Fred developed a love for automobiles at an early age. He worked at Rink Brothers, Clayt’s Auto Shop and Fairway Ford before spending many years at Barrett’s Auto Body, where he remained until his retirement in 2023. As a young man, he enjoyed building cars and trucks and racing them on local mud tracks and drag strips throughout the region.

In addition to his work in the auto body industry, Fred was a talented carpenter. He spent countless evenings and weekends building and remodeling homes, creating beautiful kitchen cabinets and helping family, friends and neighbors with projects of all kinds. He was known for his strong work ethic, generous spirit and willingness to help anyone in need.

Fred enjoyed baking, bowling with the Thursday Night League at Byllye Lanes and camping with his family. Some of his happiest moments were spent teaching his granddaughters how to bake and sharing time with those he loved. He was well liked by nearly everyone who knew him and never hesitated to lend a helping hand. His kindness, humor and generosity left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Above all, Fred cherished his family. His greatest joy came from spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought immense pride and happiness to his life.

Surviving are his daughter, Casey Baer of Bradford; his son, Scott (Kasi) Salerno of Bradford; the mother of his children, Cathy Chiarenza Salerno of Bradford; five grandchildren, Winnie Baer, MiaLynn Salerno, Hannah Skaggs, Lacey Cressley and Rylee Cahill; two great-grandchildren, Finnigan Cressley and Fischer Cressley; his sister, Mary Ann (Joseph) Sczudlo of Fletcher, N.C.; his brother, Michael (Stacie) Salerno of Bradford; and his uncles, James Guelfi of Bradford and John (Mary Lynn) Salerno of Warren; along with two nieces and two nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his uncle, Henry “Hank” Guelfi.

Family will receive friends 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday (May 31, 2026) at Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc., 372 E. Main St., where funeral services will immediately follow. Burial will be in St. Bernard Cemetery.

Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to Kids and Cancer, P.O. Box 1299, Bradford, PA 16701.

Funeral arrangements are under direction of Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc. Online condolences may be expressed at hollenbeckcahill.com.