Christel Elisabeth Salazar

December 27, 1939 – October 17, 2025

Oxnard, California

Christel Elisabeth Salazar, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 17, 2025, at the age of 85, with her children by her side. She had a heart as warm as her smile and a spirit that touched everyone she met. Christel’s life was a rich tapestry of love, joy, and resilience.

Born on December 27, 1939, in Frankfurt, Germany, Christel was the daughter of Wilhelm and Margarethe Bender. She was one of three daughters, and growing up in post-war Germany, Christel carried with her the values of hard work, loyalty, and kindness that she would later pass down to her children and grandchildren.

In the late 1950s, Christel’s life took a transformative turn when she met the love of her life, Manuel Avelar Salazar, during his Army station assignment in Frankfurt. A deep and enduring connection quickly blossomed between them, and after Manuel completed his military service, they moved to the United States and were married in White Plains, New York in 1958. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and the joys of raising a family.

Christel and Manuel were blessed with three children: David, Christopher, and Elke. Christel’s devotion to her children was immeasurable—she was the heart of their home, always offering a listening ear, a comforting embrace, and, most famously, meals that brought the family together. Whether hosting family gatherings or simply enjoying quiet time with her children, Christel's home was a place of refuge and love.

Christel’s sense of humor, sharp wit, and infectious laugh were trademarks of her personality. As a grandmother and great-grandmother, she passed down these same qualities, becoming a beloved matriarch in her extended family. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were a constant source of joy, and she took great pride in watching them grow.

Christel is survived by her sons, David and Christopher (Angie); her daughter, Elke; her cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Manuel Salazar; her parents, Wilhelm and Margarethe Bender; and her sister, Rita Kneisel.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the compassionate team at Los Robles Hospice (Bhajan, Brad, Angela and staff) for their care and support during Christel’s final days.

A visitation will be held at Del Angels Mortuary 401 W. Channel Islands Blvd, Oxnard CA 93033 on November 11, 2025 from 4:00pm – 8:00pm with a Rosary at 6:30pm.

A funeral service will be held at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church 2511 S. C St. Oxnard, CA 93033 on November 12, 2025 at 10:00am. Burial will be immediately following the funeral mass at Santa Clara Cemetery 2370 N. H St. Oxnard, CA 93036