TM Salazar, better known as Phil, age 84, was born to Simon and Guadalupe Salazar on July 18, 1930 in San Benito, Texas. He was called to Heaven on November 4, 2014.

In 1950 he married his childhood sweetheart, Elodia Moreno. Together they raised 9 children; he always said he had his own baseball team.

Phil brought his family to California in 1960 seeking a better life. He was very proud of his children and so many of his children’s friends felt privileged to also call him “Dad” or “Papa Phil.” Phil enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping. He loved going to Oakland A’s ball games and watching his Dallas Cowboys (and cheerleaders!) He enjoyed spending time with family and friends sharing stories, and a few “sarsaparillas” (beers)

Phil worked as a Refrigerating Engineer for 30 years. He owned his own auto repair shop for a few years. Even in “retirement” he enjoyed working as shop manager for Salazar Concrete Inc. for 15 years.

Phil was met in heaven by his parents, his sister, Ramona, son, Hector, grandson, Cody, and son-in-law, Dennis Patalingjug. He leaves behind his wife of 64 years, Elodia, his children, Norma Patalingjug, Dan Salazar (Lori), Irma Mitchell (Greg), Cindy Salazar, Phil Salazar Jr., Patti Herrington (Steve Atwood), Debbie Pope (John), Rick Salazar (Cindy), 17 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, 6 sisters, 4 brothers, as well as a large extended family. 

A funeral service will held Monday, November 10 at 1:00 p.m. at Turlock Funeral Home, 425 N. Soderquist Rd., in Turlock, with interment to follow in Turlock Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations made in Phil’s name to Community Hospice, American Cancer Society, Alzheimer’s Association, or other charity of your choice. 

Dad was a strong, hard working man who leaves a legacy of love and friendship, who will live forever in our hearts.