Earl Franklin Saltzman

Earl Franklin Saltzman, a proud United States Marine and Vietnam War veteran, passed away on February 26, 2025, at the age of 81. A man of unwavering dedication, Earl served his country with honor for four years in the Marine Corps and will be laid to rest in his dress uniform, a testament to his lifelong pride in the Corps.
Born on January 31, 1944, in Whitesville, Kentucky, Earl moved to Channahon, Illinois, at a young age and attended Channahon Grade School before graduating from Minooka High School in 1962. After his service in the Marines, he built a career as a hardworking member of Laborers Local 75, where he was respected for his commitment and strong work ethic. He was married to Martha (née Thomas), with whom he built a beautiful family. Earl was overjoyed when he was blessed with a granddaughter, Riley.
Earl was a man of quiet strength, deep loyalty, and a love for family that never wavered. He was a longtime member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Mokena, where his faith remained a guiding force in his life.
He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Harold Sr. and Reba Saltzman, his sister Georgia Addis, and his only son, Michael Saltzman, who passed away last April at the age of 50.
Earl is survived by his cherished granddaughter, Riley Saltzman; his stepdaughter, Cathie Wolff (the late Douglas Wolff); as well as his siblings, Harold Jr. (Joann), Sue (Karl) Wheatley, and John (Vanessa) Saltzman; and numerous nieces and nephews who will forever remember his kindness, dedication, and the legacy he leaves behind.
Funeral visitation will be March 5, 2025 at Vandenberg Funeral Home Mokena from 3 pm until 8 pm. Funeral service will be on March 6, 2025 at 11 am with a burial to follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery.