Rudy "Dewey" Salazar Sr.

Rudolfo “Dewey” Salazar Sr. passed away peacefully on July 5, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was 86 years old. Dewey was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Helen Salazar; his daughter Helene and her husband Pablo Fernandez; his son Rudolfo (Rudy) and his wife Sandy Salazar; his grandchildren Blaine (Deserae) Salazar, and Maria (Lazaro) Sanchez; and his great-granddaughters Neveah, Lily, and Amiyah Salazar. He is also survived by his sisters Pauline Garcia and Connie (Eduardo) Rodriguez, Sister-in-law Nora Salazar and Brother-in-law Charlie Shane; Sister-in-law Angelina (Steve) Archuleta Sr. and by many beloved nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Alfredo and Antonia Salazar; brothers Alfredo Jr. (Elvira) Salazar; Ruben (Teresita) Salazar, Julian (Mary) Salazar; infant brother Tomasito Lee Salazar; Gilbert Salazar; and his sister Natividad (Tony) Roybal; Lucy Serna; Rosalie Shane; Brother-in-law Juan Eledo Garcia. Father/Mother-in-law Eliseo and Rosanna Gutierrez.

Dewey was a proud member of the IBEW Local 611 Union for 65 years. He retired after 35 years of dedicated service as a journeyman lineman, having worked his way up to the role of foreman. Dewey took immense pride in his craft and cherished the lifelong friendships he formed throughout his career. He faced a lengthy illness with strength and grace. His family will remember him for his steady presence, unwavering love, and the wisdom he shared with each generation. 

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Givings Program and all the nurses who supported Dewey with care and compassion. Special thanks are given to Leanna Martinez, Jonathan LaRue, Katherine Roundtree, Donna Debonis, and Arlene Trujillo and all the additional nurses who graciously and generously volunteered their time to fill in the gaps and provide exceptional care. Special thanks to Josie Hamblin for always answering our calls and assisting us in solving any issues.

The family also wishes to thank Eloida Martinez with Ambercare Hospice for her thoughtful support.

A special thanks to Dewey’s dear friend and personal chef, Barbara Vigil, for her unwavering love and dedication to providing Dewey’s favorite meals.

The family also offers special thanks to the Chamita Fire Department for their dedication and assistance in caring for Dewey in his time of need. They consistently provided the highest level of care during transport and were always responsive to our calls, offering support with compassion and professionalism.

Dewey was a man of few words, but his actions spoke volumes. He was always there for his family—offering his love, support, and a helping hand whenever it was needed. His quiet strength, unwavering generosity, and willingness to assist will always be remembered. Dewey’s face would light up at the mention of dessert. Among his favorites were his beloved Jello cakes, chocolate cakes, banana and chocolate pudding, and, of course, chocolate chip cookies. He always made sure to have a full package of cookies on hand and rarely ended a meal without enjoying one. Known affectionately as the “Cookie Monster,” Dewey’s sweet tooth and joyful indulgence in life’s simple pleasures brought smiles to everyone around him. His sister Pauline always knew just what would brighten his day—she never came to visit without bringing him one of his favorite sweet treats, a gesture he cherished deeply.

Dewey leaves behind a legacy of love, family, hard work, and faith. He will be deeply missed by his beloved wife Helen and his daughter/son-in-law Helene and Pablo; Son/daughter-in-law Rudy and Sandy and his grandson/wife Blaine and Deserae, who were all dedicated to his care and keeping him in his home until his final moments. Dewey will forever be cherished in the hearts of all who knew him.

Pallbearers: Leroy Salazar, Ron Salazar, David Medina, Charlie Shane Jr. and Blaine Salazar, Jacque Rodriguez.

Honorary Pallbearers: Carlos Vigil; Phil Diaz; Pete Trujillo; Howard Lopez; Steve Archuleta Sr.; Dean Serna; Andrew Salazar; Sheila Martinez

Service dates and times will be posted as soon as possible.