Donald David Salazar, age 72, passed away peacefully on Oct. 1, 2024, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Born on Dec. 3, 1951, Donald grew up in Antonito, Colo., where he developed his love for the outdoors that would last throughout his life. He graduated from high school in 1969 and proudly served in the United States Navy from 1970 to 1974, specializing in interior communications and electronics.
After his military service, Donald attended Adams State College from 1974 to 1977, where he earned his Bachelor's Degree in Political Science and Psychology. Following his undergraduate studies, he completed his Master of Science in Counseling at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. He went on to work as a counselor for the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation from 1983 to 2007, helping countless individuals improve their lives.
Donald was passionate about golfing, fishing, and cooking. He also cherished his annual trips to Green Lake. Donald’s extensive network of friends were like family to him and he thrived on their support and companionship.
He was a proud member of the fraternal organization SPMDTU and took great pride in giving back to the community through the PACT Council. These commitments were a reflection of his dedication to service, unity, and community support.
Donald had his first child with his first wife Katie Jones. During his second marriage he had three children with Annette Sandoval. Donald is survived by his children: Bethany Salazar (Fabian Montoya), Esperanza Salazar (Adam VanIwaarden), Alma Salazar (Kurt Lujan), Domingo Salazar (Kayla Salazar).
Later in life, Donald met the love of his life, Marie Manzanares. He felt that the years they spent together were far too few, though they filled them with love and joy.
He is also survived by his stepson Kenneth Lopez (Jaqueline Lopez). His grandchildren: Diego, Rico, Israel, Destiny, Theodore, Benjamin, Kaya, Sage, Charlie, Emma, Amaziah, Maria, Esperanza, Lynnea, and Armando. And his great-grandchildren: Rhowann, Alec, Vincent, Maelani, Emmanuel, Izabel, and Itzel.
He is also survived by his siblings: Ronnie, Janet, Martin, Trudy, Leslie, Karma, and Lisa.
Donald was preceded in death by his parents, Gilbert and Ruth Salazar.
Donald will be deeply missed by those who knew him, but his memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were touched by his kind spirit.
A viewing will be held at Romero’s Funeral Home on Oct. 11, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The rosary will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Oct. 11, 2024, and a funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Oct. 12, 2024, both at Sacred Heart Church in Alamosa, Colo. Burial will follow at the Alamosa Cemetery. Family and friends are welcome to join Donald’s family at the Parish Hall after burial.
Donations to support pancreatic cancer research in Donald's name would be greatly appreciated by the family.
To leave online condolences, please visit Romerofuneralhomes.com. The care of arrangements has been entrusted to Romero Funeral Home of Alamosa.
