Edward William Salinsky, 78, of Portland, beloved husband of Concetta “Connie” R. (Pretronaci) Salinsky, passed away on Sunday, September 27, 2026, at Middlesex Hospital. Born in Middletown, Edward was the son of the late Bernet and Hazel (Lee) Salinsky. He proudly served his country as a veteran of the Vietnam War with the United States Marine Corps. His patriotism remained an important part of who he was throughout his life, and his pride in his country could always be seen in his love for the red, white, and blue. Ed established his own contractor business for 30 years and prior to his retirement, he worked with Starr Builders in East Hampton. Ed especially cherished time spent with his grandchildren and enjoyed Thursday night golf with friends, watching UConn basketball, playing darts, scratch tickets, and trips to the casino. He took great pride in his yard and flowers and also enjoyed spending his time doing puzzles and caring for his fish. He will be fondly remembered for his favorite saying, “Bada Bing, Bada Boom,” a phrase his family and friends will forever hear in his voice. Ed passed this Sunday, only a day after celebrating his 56th Anniversary with his wife. Ed was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. Anyone who knew Ed knew that family was at the center of his life, but there was never any question that his daughters, Stephanie and Andrea, were his girls and held an especially dear place in his heart. His sons-in-law, John and Stephen, not only became his family but became his best friends as well. He will be deeply missed by all those who had the privilege of knowing and loving him. In addition to his beloved wife, Connie, Ed is survived by his two daughters, Stephanie Starr and her husband, John, of East Hampton and Andrea Baldyga and her husband, Stephen, of Colchester; his four grandchildren, Victoria Baldyga of Colchester, Sean Baldyga of Colchester, Madison Starr of East Hampton, and Jessica Starr of East Hampton; his sister, Lyn Wood, predeceased by her husband, Ronnie; his four brothers, Brent Salinsky, Gary Salinsky, Jeff Salinsky and his wife Annie, and William Salinsky and his wife Kathy; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. He is predeceased by his brother Stanley Salinsky. Friends and family may call on Thursday, October 1, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Biega Funeral Home, 3 Silver Street, Middletown. A funeral liturgy will be celebrated on Friday, October 2, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Saint Francis of Assisi Church, 3 Elm Street, Middletown. Burial with military honors will follow at the State Veterans’ Cemetery, 317 Bow Lane, Middletown. Those who wish may make memorial contributions in Ed’s memory to Wounded Warrior Project, https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/ . To share memories or express condolences online, please visit the Biega Funeral Home website, www.biegafuneralhome.com .