David Salazar

DAVID JOE SALAZAR, 85, a resident of Espanola, passed away on Tuesday, February 1st from a lengthy illness. David (or “Cotzy” as he was known by close friends) drew his final breath at his home in Corral de Piedra as he was surrounded by his loving family; just feet away from where he was born to Enrique and Adelaida Salazar.

David was preceded in death by his wife, Helen Kain Salazar; brother, Gilbert Salazar; sisters Lucille Whitehead, Isabel Vigil, Sr. Marie Bernarde Salazar, and most recently, Helen Montoya. David graduated from Espanola High School in 1954. Soon after, he left his job as a projectionist at El Chico Drive-in theater in Espanola to live with his brother Gilbert in Los Angeles, CA, and entered an Aviation Machinist’s apprenticeship program. David became a Master Machinist and tallied over 40 years of work experience with such employers as North American Aviation, Boeing, the U.S. Army, Northrup Grumman, LANL, and contract work with NASA. David was Honorably Discharged from the U.S. Army in 1961 with a tour of South Korea included in his enlistment. David loved the outdoors, gardening, camping, and his animals.

He is survived by his sons, Kenneth Kain and Eddie Salazar; daughter in laws, Francine Kain and Kathy Salazar; beloved grandchildren, Sarah Salazar, Rachel Salazar, and Marcus Ortega Johnson; brothers, Henry, Tony, Richard; and sister, Priscilla.

Public visitation will begin on Wednesday, February 16th at 6:30pm at the DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory in Espanola, with a rosary to follow and be recited at 7:00pm. The Funeral will be celebrated on Thursday, February 17th at 12:00 Noon at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Espanola. The Interment will be at the Santa Fe National Cemetery on Friday, February 18th at 9:45am with the following serving as pallbearers: Kenneth Kain, Eddie Salazar, Sarah Salazar, Sergio Meza, Leon Ortega, and Melissa Salazar. Honorary pallbearers: Rachel Salazar and Marcus Ortega Johnson.

The family of David J. Salazar would like to thank the staff of Giving Home Health Care for the love and attention given to their father over the years, especially Melissa Salazar, Jennika Martinez, Iona Ortiz, Reyna Griego, Monica Martinez, Sonal Porwah, and Leslie Tenorio.

The family of David J. Salazar has entrusted the care of their loved one to the DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Espanola Valley www.devargasfuneral.com 505-747-7477