Imelda "Mel" Salnoske, 89, of Hampton, VA died peacefully at home October 2, 2018.  Mel is survived by her children Karl Salnoske (Susan) of McLean, Teresa Salnoske, Kevin Salnoske (Teresa) of Smithfield, Kathy Sands (Stephen) of Vienna, Richard Salnoske (Julie) of Hampton, a brother Gilbert Degenhardt (Mary Lou) of San Diego, CA, along with numerous grandchildren, great-grands and a host of nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Carlton, brothers Leonard and Omer Degenhardt and sister Alberta Denton.

Mel was a wonderful singer and an avid reader. For many years she was a member of the Virginia Choral Society. In addition she was a season ticket holder to the Virginia Opera Company and thoroughly enjoyed seeing them perform. She loved to read and often provided books as gifts to her grandchildren to try to encourage them to read more. She was a teacher and a librarian and was passionate about educating students (and her children) in the proper use of the English language. She was a dedicated member of the church and actively supported it by singing in the choir, caring for altar linens, making beds at the Retreat House or whatever else was needed.

A funeral Mass is scheduled for 11:00AM, Tuesday, October 9th, at St Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church at Fort Monroe with Monsignor Walter C. Barrett officiating. A reception will follow at the church hall. Family will greet friends from 10AM - 11AM prior to the funeral. R Hayden Smith Funeral Home (www.rhaydensmith.com) will be handling funeral arrangements. Burial will follow at a later date at Arlington Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers the family would request donations to the Alzheimer's Association, St. Mary Star of the Sea School (Hampton, Virginia), or the charity of your choice.