Joseph Salas

Joseph Salas, affectionately known to many as Joey, Joe, and Goose, went to be with the Lord on Monday, September 28, 2026.

He was preceded in death by his father James Jimmy Salas, grandmother Helen Salas, and girlfriend Lisa Gachupin

Joseph is survived by his children: Rio Gachupin, Vicente Salas, Neavah Salas, as well as his mom Elizabeth Salas.

He lived a life marked by faith, family, humor, and a bold spirit that left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Joseph was a man of deep devotion to the Lord and carried his faith with him throughout his life. He held a special reverence for St. Michael the Archangel and believed with all his heart that he would one day be part of his army. His spiritual life was reflected not only in his words, but also in the meaningful collection he treasured, which included crosses, santos, and pictures of St. Michael. These items were more than possessions to him, as they were expressions of the faith and hope that guided him through life.

Above all else, Joseph loved his children, and they were his greatest source of pride and his most important success in life. He found joy in spending time with them, especially when they played pool together. He was also a boxing trainer, a role that reflected his strength, discipline, and desire to teach and encourage others. Joseph had a natural confidence about him, and he carried himself with a presence that was both strong and unmistakable. He was brave, hardheaded, and proud, with a big ego that was matched by an even bigger heart.

Joseph was known for his playful personality and his outgoing nature. He had a gift for making people laugh, and he especially enjoyed making funny faces and teasing his son just to get a reaction. He was a jokester through and through, and his humor brought lightness and laughter to many moments. Those who knew him will remember the way he could fill a room with energy and keep people smiling with his wit and mischief.

His interests reflected the many sides of his personality. He enjoyed watching football and was a devoted fan of the Raiders and the Bulls. He loved old school R and B as well as rap music, and these sounds often accompanied the rhythm of his daily life. He also enjoyed simple comforts and favorite foods that brought him happiness, including vanilla ice cream, spaghetti, and his mothers red chili enchilada burritos with an egg on top, which held a special place in his heart. These favorites were part of the memories that made him uniquely himself and will continue to be remembered with affection by those closest to him.

Joseph lived with passion and authenticity. He was not a man who blended into the background, and he did not try to be anyone other than who he was. His confidence, loyalty, and strong personality made him unforgettable. He could be stubborn and hardheaded, but those qualities were often part of the same determination that helped define his character. He stood firm in what he believed and loved deeply the people and things that mattered most to him.

He will be remembered for his faith, his devotion to his children, his love of sports and music, and the laughter he brought into the lives of others. Joseph Salas leaves behind a legacy of strength, humor, and love that will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him. Though his time on earth has come to an end, the memories of his life, his spirit, and his presence will remain cherished always.

Joseph's Life Celebration will begin with a Rosary to be recited on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at 7:45am at Salazar Mortuary located at 400 Third St. SW, 87102. Mass will be held at 9:00am at Shrine of the Little Flower St. Therese of the Infant Jesus Catholic Church located at 3424 4th St. NW, 87107. Joseph will be laid to rest following the Mass at Mount Calvary Cemetery located at 1900 Edith Blvd NE, 87102. Reception will follow inside Salazar Mortuary's Event Center.

Pallbearers will be Rio Gachupin, Vicente Salas, Fabina Salas, Jermey Perea, Lance Kilkenny, and Jason Hoogerhuis.