Hilario Salazar

Hilario H Salazar, (Larry) 77, of Greeley, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Sunday January 18th at 1:45pm, after battling cancer for 16 years. Larry was born February 17, 1948, in Del Rio, Texas, to Hilario H. and Maria D. Hernandez Salazar.

Larry migrated from Texas and made Colorado his home, where his life changed in the most important way — he met and married the love of his life, Catalina Trevino, on August 6, 1966. Together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and faith, and raised two daughters, Katy Ann Salazar (Greg Magdeleno) and Norma Linda Perez (Oscar Perez). Later in life, their family grew not only by blood, but also by love, as Larry and Catalina welcomed their “adopted son,” Victor Venzor (Maritza), into their hearts and lives as family. Larry and Catalina shared a deep love for the western lifestyle. They enjoyed attending rodeos and following the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) circuit across the country. A cowboy at heart, Larry was known for his proud Western attire—his boots, hat, and belt buckle—and the way he carried himself: steady, grounded, and true to his roots.

Committed to education and justice, Larry first earned his paralegal degree from the University of Northern Colorado. Later in life, he went on to earn his Juris Doctor (JD) and Master of Laws (MLS) from the University of Colorado Law School, as well as additional labor accreditations through the University of Colorado Boulder. He dedicated more than 20 years to the United Steelworkers of America, serving as International President and advocating tirelessly for civil rights, workers’ equality, and the rights of the underprivileged.

In Greeley, many knew Larry for his remarkable discipline and commitment to health. Before his illness, he faithfully walked five miles daily—totaling about 100 miles each month—around the community. For over 40 years, he proudly called himself a “gym rat,” and he often credited his active lifestyle for his strength, resilience, and ability to bravely battle cancer for 16 years.

Larry often said his greatest pride and joy were his children and grandchildren. He leaves behind his daughters Katy Ann Salazar (Greg Magdeleno) and Norma Linda Perez (Oscar Perez), his “adopted son” Victor Venzor (Maritza) and his grandchildren Leonard Garcia (Lucinda Reader), Amber Garcia, Mario Munoz IV, Jaden Salazar, and D’yon Salazar (Linda Bautista) He is also the great-grandfather of Annika, Quinsy, Annaya, Annaysia, Tatum, Ayva, DeAndre, Laila, Mila, and Alinaa. He was proud that he raised his children and grandchildren with the belief that they should always look out for the underprivileged and advocate for those who needed a voice.

Larry is also lovingly remembered by his brothers Joe L. Salazar (Susan) and Rodrigo Salazar (Cathy). He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Gilbert Salazar, his nephews Rodney Salazar, Rudy Salazar, and Joey Salazar, and his niece Laura Salazar.

A Rosary is scheduled for Friday, January 30, from 12:00–1:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life from 1:00–2:00 p.m. A potluck reception honoring Larry’s life will take place from 2:00–4:00 p.m. at Kimberly’s Event Center, 1029 8th Avenue, Greeley, Colorado. Family and friends are invited to bring a dish to share in fellowship and remembrance.

Larry H. Salazar will be remembered as a devoted husband and father, a proud grandfather and great-grandfather, a cowboy in spirit, and a tireless advocate for justice. His love, courage, and example will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests contributing to the meal train that has already been established to support the family during this time.