Thomas Salas

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Thomas "Coach Tom" Salas. He was a beloved husband, father, loyal son, brother, uncle, cousin, grandfather, and respected community leader. Coach Tom passed away suddenly on June 8, 2025, days before his 67th birthday, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, mentorship, and unwavering love for his family and San Antonio's youth.

Coach Tom was the heart and soul of every team he led. During the past several decades he coached athletes at all levels, starting with his son Daniel and the Trojans. Later, taking him and his sons Eric and Kevin to the Northwest Raiders, where he coached not only his children, but so many other athletes who soon became like son’s to him. Over the course of many more seasons and organizations, he devoted his life to developing these players, mentoring young coaches, and instilling leadership in all of them.

Among coach Tom's most unexpected and memorable roles is his time as Head Coach of a semi-professional team - the S.A. Rush and continuing as a Head Coach of the S.A. Ravens. His legacy is continued by a number of these players who followed dutifully in his footsteps and volunteered as coaches with the San Antonio Wolverines Football & Cheer organization.

"He had a profound impact beyond the field. The values of work ethic, loyalty, and perseverance were instilled in others by his mentorship, motivation, and father figure role. Through every season he gave more than just his time; he gave his wisdom, his humor, and his passion for the game. He and his wife, who served as Cheer Director, built more than just teams - they built a family. Together they inspired generations of athletes and cheerleaders locally and nationally laying a lasting foundation of support, encouragement, and love within the community they served so faithfully.

As a natural leader, Tom demonstrated selfless service and remained steadfast in the lives of others throughout his life. Whatever he did, whether it was arranging team fundraisers, mentoring kids through difficult times, or simply being a friend, he led with quiet strength and fierce devotion. One of his greatest joys was spending time with his grandchildren, who lovingly called him Popo. It was always his belief that the only thing that really mattered was how your life impacted the lives of others.

He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Mary Salas, and his brother, David Salas.

He is survived by his father, Octaviano Salas; his brothers, Robert Salas, Richard Salas, and Jody Salas; and his sister, Joann Salas; his loving wife, Norma; his children, Eric, Daniel, Kevin, and Amy; his grandchildren; extended family; and a vast community of athletes, friends, and families who were shaped by his guidance. Every life coach Tom helped shape, every lesson he shared, and every sideline he stood on is a testament to his legacy.

A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Sunset Northwest Funeral Home (6321 Bandera Rd., San Antonio, TX 78238).

Visitation & Public Reception: 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Celebration of Life Ceremony: 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Tom’s family invites all who knew and loved him to attend and share in honoring a life well lived, a coach well remembered, and a man who gave so much to his community.

There will always be a place in our hearts for Dad/ Coach Tom - for his dedication, compassion, and the way he made everyone feel like a member of his family. You can rest easy, Coach. We will carry on your legacy for generations to come - your work here is more than done.