ROANOKE COUNTY, Va. – Many people have placed flowers outside a Roanoke County restaurant in honor of its owner, who died while kayaking on Monday.
The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries says 57-year-old Salvatore Scotto-DiCarlo died Monday while kayaking at Carvins Cove. It's still unknown if he had a medical problem before falling into the water.
He owned Sal's Italian Restaurant on Route 460 in Roanoke County.
A viewing is scheduled for Thursday at Simpson Funeral Home between 5 and 9 p.m. Services are scheduled for Friday at noon at St. Andrews Catholic Church (631 N Jefferson St, Roanoke, VA 24016).
The restaurant posted the news about his death on Wednesday morning, saying:
"It is what great sadness to let all our customers know the passing of a faithful husband, loving father, and and devoted friend, Salvatore Scotto DiCarlo. His gift was Italian culinary, but his passion was for his family and friends.
"He came over from Italy to find the American dream. He accomplished that and much more. He had a heart of gold and would do anything for anyone. He left a legacy anyone would be proud to have. He taught his children to smile, laugh and love everyone. To do all the good you can, for as long as you can, whenever you can, for whoever you can. Many family, friends, and customers have shared many of these memories and experiences with us over these last few trying days."
The restaurant will reopen on Monday.
Sgt. James Slaughter with Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries wants to remind people to wear a life jacket and also have someone with you when you are in the water.
It is what great sadness to let all our customers know the passing of a faithful husband, loving father, and and devoted...
Posted by Sal's Italian Restaurant - Roanoke on Wednesday, July 5, 2017