Mike Castillo Salazar

Born on January 20, 1935, in Sugar Land, Texas, Mike was the son of Zaragoza and Catarina Salazar, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his beloved son through marriage, René Cardenas.

Mike served his country with honor in the United States Army, inducted on September 20, 1955, and receiving an honorable discharge on May 31, 1962.

He went on to enjoy a long and dedicated career, with two retirements—first from the Texas Highway Department, and later from Alloy Machine Works, Inc.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Maria Louisa Salazar; his beloved son, Abel Salazar Sr., and wife Mary Jacklyn of Spring, Texas; his beloved grandsons, Abel Salazar Jr. and his cherished Andrea Evelyn of Houston, Texas, Aaron Raymond Salazar of Spring, Texas, and Andrew Mike Salazar of San Antonio, Texas; his beloved children through marriage, Lisa Cardenas Jackson and her husband James Edward of Houston, Texas, and David Cardenas and his wife Debra Ann of Atascocita, Texas, and their daughters Lauren Jewels Cardenas (and her daughter, Aaliyah Rosario Salazar) of Humble, Texas, and Rebecca Lynn Cardenas (and her daughter, Olivia Mae Bush) of Atascocita, Texas; his beloved son in heart, Joe Michael Salazar of Houston, Texas; his beloved brother, Ricardo Roberto Salazar and his wife Esther of Friendswood, Texas; and countless beloved family and friends.

Mike will be remembered for his thoughtful and caring heart, a strength rooted in loyalty, generosity, and deep faithfulness. He lived out his beliefs with conviction—always ready to lend a listening ear, offer thoughtful advice, and extend kindness without hesitation. He was a steady presence in the lives of those who knew him, often turned to as a source of wisdom and calm in both everyday moments and difficult times.

He found joy in the simple pleasures of life—strumming his beloved bajo, casting a line on peaceful fishing trips, enjoying a round of golf, and taking road trips with those he loved. These moments reflected his appreciation for life and his deep connection to the people and world around him.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to Carelinx and Enhabit Hospice for their compassionate care and support. A special thank you to Lisa, Mark, Janet, Monica, Robert, Rochelle, Sandra, Shane, and Pasquale, whose kindness, presence, and dedication brought comfort and peace to Mike and his family in his final days.

They also extend heartfelt thanks to his beloved friends in Conroe, Texas, who brought added love, joy, and companionship to Mike and Maria Louisa during their glory years—years filled with laughter, meaningful conversation, and lasting memories.

A celebration of Mike’s life will be held on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 2:00 pm with an hour visitation prior and a committal to follow. All services will be held at Forest Park East Funeral Home and Cemetery, located at 21620 Gulf Freeway in Webster, Texas.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, and his legacy of kindness, wisdom, and strength will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.