AUBURN – Jerome J. (Whirley) Salvadalena, 77, of Auburn, went to be with the Lord on May 31, 2023, knowing that he would be greeted by his parents and other loved ones, in a life without the constant pain that he was afflicted with.

He was born in Auburn, Maine on Oct. 17, 1945, the son of the late Auburn Deputy Fire Chief Frederick M. Whirley and former Mary L. (Bilodeau ) Whirley, the youngest of 13 children. Jerome graduated from Edward Little High School in 1964. Immediately afterward, Jerome worked for Geiger Brothers in Lewiston for a short time, after which he decided to move to New York City, where he received his work experience and formal education. He also was involved with and greatly enjoyed counseling potentially suicidal children.

While in New York City, Jerome met his friend and life partner, Dean, in 1988, formalizing their relationship in 2013.

Jerome loved gardening and nature, spending time watching birds and feeding them. He also loved reading and photography. Jerome was fortunate to have journeyed throughout Europe on numerous occasions, as well as Hawaii, Canada and the Virgin Islands. He also loved travelling throughout Maine, with his favorite location being Boothbay Harbor, where he and Dean would stay often for Windjammer Days.

Jerome leaves behind his spouse, Dean and his beloved dog Siobhan, along with three sisters, Doris Webster of Florida, and Margaret Whirley and Joan Hebert, both of Auburn. He was predeceased by his parents and three very special sisters, Mary Charpentier, Georgette Cain and Patricia Anderson, in addition to six brothers, Patrick ( twin brother to Patricia Anderson ), Thomas, Frederick Jr., Michael, John, and Patrick R. Additionally, he leaves behind many nieces, great nieces, nephews and great nephews.

A private graveside service will be held at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Lewiston.

Online condolences and sharing of memories may be expressed at http://www.funeralalternatives.net.

Arrangements under the care of Funeral Alternatives, 25 Tampa St. Lewiston, Maine 04240.