Guadalupe Salinas

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Guadalupe (Lupe) Salinas. Lupe was born on July 24, 1948 and entered eternal rest on January 23, 2024, with his devoted wife, Nellie, and his in-laws, Gloria, Joe, and Blanca, by his side.

Lupe was a proud graduate of the PSJA Class of ’67 where he excelled as an athlete. He demonstrated his grit, determination and skill as a running back for the PSJA Bears. His love for sports was the prelude to his chosen profession. Lupe graduated from Pan American College with a degree in history and a minor in physical education. He worked for the PSJA School District for 33 years as a physical education instructor and coach. Lupe formed many lifelong friendships through his involvement in sports and education. It brought him much joy that many of his former students went on to excel at high school sports.

Lupe and Nellie met when they were both working as swimming instructors at the Pharr swimming pool. Their love bloomed into a partnership that would last for 30 years. They both embraced a love for nature and the thrills it offered. They took venturesome 30 day road trips to various western states. Together they enjoyed the thrills of the outside world—whether it was hunting in the quiet solace of nature and/or fishing in the calm of the bay. Their shared passion for the outdoors had them enjoying their time at Long Island Village in the summers and at the deer lease during the hunting season.

Lupe had a passion for grilling. He especially enjoyed the love and laughter he shared with his friends and family. He lived life like he played sports—with serious commitment but always with love. His humor was reflective of his personality: deep, meaningful, and with an inclination to leave a lasting impression. Lupe was a person who stood firm in his convictions, unyielding in the face of compromise. Lupe’s legacy lives on in the stories, the laughter, and the silent, secret moments of gratitude we all feel for having shared our journey with him.

Lupe is survived by his loving wife, Nellie Salinas; six brothers and sisters in-laws, Nora Gonzales, Gloria Gonzales, Luis H. Gutierrez, Jose E. Gutierrez, Maricela Cantu, Joe Montemayor and many nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

Lupe is preceded in death by his parents, Santos and Olga Salinas, and his sister, Yvonne Montemayor.

A viewing will be held at Funeraria Del Angel Palm Valley on Monday, January 29, 2024 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. with a prayer service at 7 p.m. A viewing will continue on Tuesday, January 30, 2024 at Funeraria Del Angel Palm Valley with a funeral service at 10 a.m. followed by burial at Palm Valley Memorial Gardens at 11 a.m.