BENNINGTON, Vt. — Henry Salem, 89, a resident of East Main Street, Bennington, died Saturday, April 8, 2017, at The Centers for Living and Rehab. 

Henry was born on August 27, 1927, in the family home on 819 East Main St. in Bennington, Vt., where he lived his entire life. He was the son of Lebanese immigrants, George and Manera (Beshara) Salem. The same year of his birth, his father built and opened Salem's Super Market directly adjacent to the family home. In 1938, his father tragically passed away while visiting family in Lebanon. The family continued to run the store without interruption until Mr. Salem's retirement in 2001, when the store was sold. In his honor, it has been renamed Henry's Market. 

In his early adulthood, Mr. Salem became interested in becoming a butcher. He spent countless hours learning the trade from his uncle, George Beshara, who owned Beshara's Market. With his newfound skill, he was able to add a new dimension to the family business and as a result, Salem's Super Market became well known for its quality meats and exceptional customer service. He was incredibly proud of his family's immigrant roots and the strong work ethic they bestowed upon him. In 1963 he purchased the Bushnell farm on South Stream Road. When not at his store, Henry could be found there. For several years he operated a successful maple sugaring operation at the farm. 

Mr. Salem was an avid hunter and sportsman. He was a longtime member and patron of Hale Mountain Rod and Gun Club. He was a highly skilled trap shooter, winning several regional and state competitions. Henry was also a member of the Eagle Hose Volunteer Fire Department, Elks Club, and Moose Lodge. 

He is predeceased by his eldest brother George Salem; two sisters, Louise (Lonergan) and Elizabeth Salem; and his lifetime companion Faye Rousseau. 

He is survived by his younger brother, Charles G. Salem, D.D.S., of Bennington; and 10 nieces and nephews. 

Henry was eternally grateful to the many faithful friends that continued to pay him visits regularly through the years of his declining health. The family would like to thank all of his private caregivers, the CLR staff, and Dr. Scott Rogge, M.D., for their tireless dedication and exceptional care. 

Funeral notice: The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated from Sacred Heart St. Francis deSales Church on Wednesday, April 12, 2017, at 11 a.m. Interment will be private in the Salem family lot in Park Lawn Cemetery. At Mr. Salem's request there will be no calling hours, memorial gifts or flowers. Arrangements are under the direction of the Shea Family Funeral Home.