Gregorio Salazar Sr., a proud World War II U.S. Army veteran, devoted husband, and beloved patriarch, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and hard work.
Born in Cuero to the late Pilar Salazar and Paula Galan Rodriguez Salazar, Gregorio served honorably in the United States Army, embodying the values of discipline and service that would guide him throughout his life. After his military service, he worked at Allied Feeds and Brentex/Mt. Vernon Mills, where his strong work ethic and dedication earned the respect of all who knew him.
On January 6, 1955, Gregorio married the love of his life, Josefa Vela. Together they built a home filled with resilience, joy, and unwavering devotion. Their marriage was blessed with a large and loving family, and Gregorio took great pride in raising his children to be hardworking, resilient, honest, and strong. His love for Josefa was evident in every gesture, and their bond remained the heart of the family through every season of life.
Gregorio was a man of simple pleasures and deep convictions. He absolutely loved mowing his lawn on his John Deere tractor, a pastime he enjoyed faithfully into his final days. It brought him peace and satisfaction, a quiet joy that reflected his appreciation for life’s everyday blessings. He truly enjoyed attending sporting events for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, cheering them on with pride and enthusiasm. Whether in the stands or on the sidelines, his presence was a source of encouragement and love. His quick wit, warm smile, and unwavering love for his family made him a cherished presence in every room—a man whose humor could lift spirits and whose hugs could steady hearts.
He raised his children to be hard workers, instilling in them the belief that effort and integrity were the cornerstones of a meaningful life. His legacy lives on in their strength, unity, and the values he passed down. His lessons were not just spoken—they were lived, day by day, in the way he carried himself and cared for others.
Gregorio is survived by his loving children; Rodolfo, Gregorio Jr. (Virginia), Daniel (Raquel), Diana (Eusebio), Rebecca (Raymond), Jaime (Blanca), Daughter in law, Graciela Salazar, Blanca (Carlton), and Linda (Kent); his beloved sister, Severa Yanes; 31 grandchildren; 52 great-grandchildren; and 28 great-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Josefa; his parents; his son, Armando Salazar; great-great grandson Royal Burmeister; sisters, Seta Zamora, Virginia Villa, Flavia Lopez, Andrea Trevino, and Dominga Ramos; and brothers, Pilar Salazar Jr., Trino Salazar, Johnny Salazar, and Fernando Salazar.
Gregorio’s life was marked by quiet strength, unwavering faith, and a deep commitment to family. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew him, and his memory will continue to guide and inspire generations to come. He was the kind of man whose love shaped lives, whose laughter echoed across decades, and whose presence will be missed beyond measure.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, September, 3, 2025, 5-7 PM at Freund Funeral Home with a rosary to be recited at 6:30 PM. Funeral Services will be Thursday, September 4, 2025, 10:00 AM at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with Father Michael Odartey-Lamptey officiating. Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery.
Pallbearers include Rodolfo Salazar Jr, Gregorio Salazar III, Daniel Salazar Jr, Eusebio Mario Saenz IV, Raymond Rocha Jr.,Jason Burmeister, Zachariah Salazar, Samuel Caudillo Jr.,Robert Rocha, Matthew Salazar, Kevin Salazar, Armando Salazar Jr.
Honorary Pallbearers include Vanessa Scott, Allison Tremillo, Kristina Holmes, Elaine Kubicek, Myrna Valero, Christina Caudillo, Caitlin Caudillo, Monica Rocha, Jennifer Murillo, Amanda Salazar, Sandy Garcia, Samantha Salazar, Stacie Salazar, and Bethany Hobbs.