Michael William Salender Sr.'s Obituary
Michael William Salender, Sr., age 55, of Cape Coral, Florida, passed away on June 2, 2026, at AdventHealth Port Charlotte following recent heart surgery.
Born on June 5, 1970, in Bristol, Pennsylvania, Michael was formerly of Trenton, New Jersey, before making Cape Coral his home in 1999. A proud veteran, he honorably served his country in the United States Air Force during Desert Storm, carrying that sense of duty and pride throughout his life.
Michael pursued his passion for technology by earning an Associate’s Degree in Computer Science from Edison State College, now known as Florida SouthWestern State College. He dedicated his career to public service, working with the Lee County Board of County Commissioners in the Utilities Division, where he specialized in repairing water meters and contributed to the community he loved.
A man of many interests, Michael was a devoted fan of the band Tool and found great joy in nature. He loved gardening, especially tending to his palm trees and plants, and took pride in creating peaceful outdoor spaces. He had a deep appreciation for history and craftsmanship, which he expressed through antiquing and collecting pocket watches and barometers, reflecting his fascination with time and weather. Michael was also an automobile enthusiast, with a particular fondness for Mustangs.
Above all, Michael was a devoted husband, father, son, and brother. He is survived by his beloved wife of 35 years, Angela Marie (Varner) Salender; his loving sons, Michael Salender, Jr., Austin Salender, Christian Salender, and Tanner Salender, all of Cape Coral, Florida; his mother, Joyce Salender; his sisters, Kimberly (Brad) Crosby and Lori (Jimmy) Bucko; mother in law, Maryann Varner; brothers in law, James (Stephanie) Varner, Jr. and Daniel (Jackie) Varner, Sr.; and many cherished nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by the father he never had, his father-in-law, James Varner, Sr.
Family and friends will be received on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Boulevard, Fort Myers, Florida 33907. Funeral services will begin at 12:00 PM. Burial with Military Honors will follow at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Collier-Lee Honor Flight, P.O. Box 8001, Naples, Florida 34101, to support transporting local veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit their memorials.
Michael will be remembered for his service, his passions, and the deep love he shared with his family and friends.
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