February 23, 1931~ August 8, 2024
A legacy of love, humility, laughter, & service
Mario’s life was marked by kindness, integrity, great humor, and an unwavering love for his family and community, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend.
Born and raised in Mexico, Mario met Martha, the love of his life as a teenager. Together, they embarked on a journey that led them to the United States, settling in Texas, where they built their life and raised five children. Mario loved his wife deeply and devoted himself to her well-being, embodying the true meaning of sacrificial love throughout their life together.
Throughout his 93 years, Mario was a man of deep curiosity, always eager to learn. He made you feel truly seen and heard, asking questions that explored your ideas, dreams, values, and feelings. His genuine interest in people created an instant bond, and trusting and loving him was easy.
Mario touched the lives of countless people with his great sense of humor, kindness, and warmth. He was known for his gentle spirit, wise counsel, great stories, funny jokes, and sharp mind. Whether it was offering a word of wisdom, leading a bible study or prayer group, or sharing a great story or joke, he encouraged many.
His love for food was legendary. It was a cornerstone of family, bringing joy and flavor to his life and the lives of all lucky enough to join him at a table. Abo’s Salsa was famous!
Mario will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and friends, who will forever be grateful for their time with him. Mario is survived by his wife of 67 years Martha Garcia Salazar, children Mario Salazar of Houston TX, Martha Buono & husband Scott of Belle Isle FL, Javier G. Salazar & husband Christopher of Media PA, Robert Salazar & wife Terri of Charlottesville VA. Grandchildren; Erica Salazar & Eric Young of Boston MA, Jessica & Chad Miller of Richmond VA, Scott & Lindsay Buono of Belle Isle FL, Tayler Buono of Nashville TN, Chelsea & Omar Yanez of Houston TX, Elizabeth Salazar of Media PA, Bobby & Micaelah Salazar of Waynesboro VA and Neil Salazar & Maggie Zibas of Knoxville TN. Great grandchildren Elian Salazar Young, Eisley, Harper & Amelia Miller, RJ & Cor Buono, and Arianna Yanez. Many beloved nieces & nephews, and many others blessed to have known him.
He was preceded in death by son J. Armando Salazar, father Fortunato Salazar, mother Juana Espinoza, and brothers Raul Salazar and Ediberto Salazar.
He will be missed more than words can express, but his spirit will forever be with us, guiding us with the same love & wisdom he shared throughout his life.
You are Loved. Mario, Papi, Abo. Your life was a blessing. Your memory is a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure. And now you see the face of Jesus.
Memorial Service:
Monday, September 2, 2024
11:00 AM
WoodsEdge Community Church
25333 Gosling Rd
Spring TX 77389