Obituary of Tomas M. Salazar Jr.

Tomas “Sal” Menchaca Salazar Jr. went to his heavenly home on Wednesday, February 18th, surrounded by his family.

Tomas was born to Emma and Tomas Salazar Sr. on May 22, 1949, in Acuña, Mexico. He was the second of six children, alongside Roger, Abel, Yolanda, Leticia and Margarita. As a child, he grew up in Del Rio, Texas. In 1962, his family moved to Brackettville, Texas, where his parents owned a restaurant on the old Fort Clark base.

Sal became a lifelong fan of John Wayne after meeting him and the cast of The Alamo at his parents’ restaurant. His children spent many weekends with him watching old westerns, especially those featuring “The Duke.”

In the summer of 1964, the family moved to Iowa and eventually made their home in Columbus City. In the spring of 1968, he met Carla Lukins, whom he lovingly called Virginia. He often said that from the moment he saw her, he knew she was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. They were united in marriage on February 19, 1972. Tom and Carla made their home across the street from Tomas Sr., Emma, and his sister Margie.

Tom and Carla welcomed their first daughter, Heidi, in 1969. Heidi later became the proud mother of two children, Ian and Sydney. Sydney has three children of her own — Evelyn, Kinsley, and Juddson — each of whom held a special place in his heart.

Tomas III was born to Tom and Carla in 1974. He became the father of two daughters, Akayla and Alivia. Akayla is the mother of two daughters, Terra and Makenna, and Alivia is the mother of two children, Kolton and Amelia, each bringing even more joy to his life.

In 1981, Tom and Carla celebrated the birth of their daughter, Brianna. She is the mother of two sons, Chad Tomas and Paul, who filled his life with love and laughter.

When Sal wasn’t working at Natural Gas Pipeline, he could be found outside. He enjoyed working in his yard, tinkering in his garage, detailing cars, fishing, and camping. After more than 40 years at the pipeline, his full-time job became traveling and fishing with Virginia. For several years, they wintered in Mesa, Arizona, and McAllen, Texas. They celebrated their 50th anniversary with a trip to Hawaii.

Sal’s generosity came straight from his heart. He was a giving man who never hesitated to help — offering food, money, clothing, and even the shirt off his own back to someone in need. His kindness left a lasting mark, a gentle yet powerful reminder of the love and care he shared so freely. He never knew a stranger; he knew people, and he treated each one like they mattered.

Per Sal’s request, no formal services will be held. His family will host a Celebration of Life at a later date, where stories will be shared and his legacy of love and generosity will be remembered.