Guadalupe "Papa" Salinas

After a courageous battle with a lengthy illness, Guadalupe Salinas—fondly known as “Lupe Sas y Sas”—peacefully laid down his boxing gloves and hung up his Superman cape as he crossed over from his home in Midland, Texas, surrounded by love on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at the age of 73.

Born on March 11, 1952, in Alice, Texas, to Alicia Garcia Salinas and Jesus Salinas, Guadalupe lived a life marked by strength, humor, and a deep devotion to family and faith. He married his longtime love, Mary Ricarda Solis, in 1979, and together they built a beautiful life filled with love and laughter.

Guadalupe is survived by the love of his life, wife Mary; his children: Mitchell Gutierrez (Tevian) of Snyder, Mickey Gutierrez (Evie) of Odessa, and Monique Guzman (Luis) of Snyder; 13 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his son Guadalupe Matthew Salinas, granddaughter Carrie Marie Gutierrez, unborn grandchild Elem Guzman, mother Alicia Ruiz, father Jesus Salinas, brothers Luis Salinas and Martin Ruiz—and, as he often joked, Elvis Presley.

Guadalupe proudly attended Western Texas College in Snyder and graduated from Eastern New Mexico University. He briefly served as a Dallas Police Officer before committing himself to a career in Cathodic Protection with the Loftis Company in Midland, where he traveled extensively and formed lifelong friendships. Known as a “Gentle Jack” and a “Giant Teddy Bear,” Guadalupe was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He led by example—teaching his loved ones to live with kindness, honor, and respect.

He had a heart full of faith, praying daily and maintaining a close relationship with the Lord. Guadalupe’s infectious sense of humor and knack for unexpected jokes brought joy to every conversation. He loved Elvis Presley, Western films, cheering on the Dallas Cowboys, gardening, fishing, traveling, and time at the Casino. But most of all, he treasured moments with his family and grandchildren.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Ellis Funeral Home in Midland, Texas. A Rosary will be recited that evening at 7:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at 2:00 PM at St. Stephen’s Catholic Church, officiated by Father Bala. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park.

All who knew and loved Guadalupe are welcome to attend and celebrate his remarkable life.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to friends, extended family, caregivers, hospital staff, hospice workers, and neighbors for their unwavering support, care, and compassion during this time.