Obituary

Gary Gene Salazar, 66, of San Juan Capistrano, California, passed away on February 1st 2025, in his San Juan Capistrano home where he lived with his two daughters and son.

Gary was born October 16th 1958, in Huntington Park, California, the son of Gilbert Salazar and Joan Elaine Salazar (McGinnis).

Gary graduated from Corona High School in 1976, then went on to study Marine Biology at Florida Institute of Technology.

Gary married Louann Bilyeu on July 8th, 1988 at Methodist Chapel in Corona, California. Although separated, Louann passed away December 3rd 2022. Gary had 4 children, and 4 grandchildren.

Gary followed his fathers footsteps, and worked as a truck driver for many years. He retired in 2023, following his cancer diagnosis in June of 2022.

Gary especially loved classic cars, british motorcycles, music, grilling for the family, and his cat. He had many cars and bikes over the years, with an emphasis on his many Volkswagen Beetles, and his Triumph motorcycles.

Gary was hard working and so very smart, but above all he was a family man through and through. Gary was a great son, and an amazing father. His greatest accomplishment in life was raising his four children.

Remaining to cherish Gary’s memory are children, Samuel Salazar, Daniel Salazar, Sarah Salazar, and Jennifer Salazar; grandchildren, Samuel Salazar, Emma Salazar, Barry Salazar, and Liam Salazar; mother, Joan Salazar; brothers, Jerry Salazar, Larry Salazar, and Barry Salazar; nieces and nephews, Christopher Salazar, Kimberly Salazar, Valerie Salazar, Julie Salazar Eichensehr, and Joshua Salazar.

Though Gary’s life was cut far too short, he fought hard. He was known for his quick wit, colorful sense of humor, and his sentimental ways. He was the kind of man you could always count on for a good laugh, or a level headed voice of reason. He cared deeply about those he loved. He had a full life of adventures and excitement, and a mind full of endless information that amazed anyone he crossed paths with. Gary will be remembered as a strong man with a huge heart, and a true hero to his children.

His memorial service will be held Friday, February 21st at 2:00 pm at O’Connor Mortuary in Laguna Hills, California.