He is predeceased by his parents and his brother Faustino Salinas. He is survived by his wife, Grace Salinas; children, Lisa Salinas and Elise Lucas, Paul A. Salinas and Thom Rubel, Cesar Salinas, and Suzanne and Steve Gutierrez; brother Robert Salinas whom he and Grace raised from his teen years; along with his six grandchildren, Allison, Audrey, Steven, John, Ava and Paul. He is also survived by 6 loving brothers and sisters, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Paul grew up in San Antonio and graduated from Fox Tech High School in 1961. He should have graduated two years prior but was removed from school to travel as a migrant worker to work in the fields alongside his parents and siblings. From this experience, Paul developed a strong work ethic and was known to never miss a day of work finding happiness in his subsequent careers. He worked at Foremost Dairy, Smith Chevrolet and the San Antonio Independent School District. At SAISD he worked as a bus driver and was assigned a special route which included children of all ages with special needs and disabilities. He would lovingly refer to his students as little angels and often give them special treats and small gifts. Paul’s friendly, humorous and trusting personality led to many friendships and lasting impressions on those with whom he worked and clients he helped.
Paul’s service and dedication to his Catholic faith started as a child when he served as an altar boy at St. Steven’s Catholic Church until his teenage years. He continued his faithful service as an active and passionate parishioner at St. John Berchmans Church. At SJB he served on the Knights of Columbus, SJB’s school reopening committee, held the position of treasurer for numerous parish and parish school organizations, fall festival committees, Men’s club and Parish councils. For many years and without fail Paul facilitated SJB School’s Monday Night Bingo as cashier and other duties. He was a communion minister and usher at Sunday masses. He also volunteered as bookkeeper and bus driver and various other roles. A highlight regarding his faithful service occured in 1987 serving as usher at now Saint Pope John Paul II’s Papal Mass in San Antonio.
Paul lived a life of integrity, kindness and love, filled with countless memories with loved ones including road trips, beach trips, a good hand of poker and many celebrations at his home for holidays and birthdays over the years.
Paul was an avid sports fan and could be found cheering on the Dallas Cowboys, the San Antonio Spurs or watching a round of golf.
Paul loved God, his family, and the love of his life and partner of 57 years, Grace. Their love was a living testament of beauty and faith.
Visitation and Rosary:
Funeraria Del Angel Trevino Funeral Home at 226 Cupples Road, San Antonio, Tx 78237, # 210-434-0595.
Viewing from 5:00 – 7:00 pm
Holy Rosary 7:00 – 9:00 pm
Mass:
St. John Berchmans Catholic Church
Holy Mass at 11:00 am
Small reception following at SJB Formation House
Service will conclude after Holy Mass. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. John Berchmans Catholic Church, 1147 Cupples Rd., San Antonio, TX 78226.
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