Michael Salazar

Michael (Mikie, Mike) Leonard Salazar, 45, born October 14, 1977, and raised in Espanola, entered eternal solace on May 25, 2023. Michael was a one-of-a-kind person with a loving and caring heart. He was a gifted musician who was always drumming on whatever was in front of him and humming a tune. His rendition of Ave Maria was a party favorite. Michael loved to eat and never turned down the opportunity to share a meal with loved ones.

Michael was preceded in death by his father Roland Quintana, beloved Great-Aunts Juanita Babcock, Rosarito Manzanares and Lorenzita Salazar. He is survived by his son Jerimiah Nylund-Salazar, mother Dianna Salazar, sister Ramona (Daniel), brother Brock (Angela), grandmother Aurora, great-aunt Toni, uncles Alfonso (Emily), Adolf, and Raymond (Georgeann), aunts Anna and Augusta, cousins who were raised as siblings Issac and Alissa, best friend Edna, and special friend Mary. He is also survived by paternal siblings Rolanda, Mary, Bethany, Hilary, Roland Jr., and stepbrother Rodney; many nieces and nephews, as well as other family and friends too numerous to list.

From a young age Mikie formed a passion for music. He taught himself to play the drums and later joined the Pojoaque Valley Marching Band. He was also a member of several bands with his brother Brock. In addition, he was a talented craftsman who used his perfectionism to create beautiful spaces in his client’s homes. Most of all, Mikie was a generous and kind man who loved his family and friends with his whole being. There was never a conversation that didn’t end with “I love you”. We will forever be grateful for all the amazing memories made with Mikie and miss his daily presence in our lives.

Thank you to everyone who has reached out to us at this difficult time. We know Michael can feel your love and support.

On Tuesday, June 13, 2023 a rosary will be held at Holy Cross Church in Santa Cruz, NM at 10:00 a.m., and a Mass at 11:00 a.m.

The family of Michael Leonard Salazar has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the beautiful Espanola Valley.  www.devargasfuneral.com  505-747-7477