Arturo Salinas Jr.

It is with heavy hearts and profound love that we announce the passing of Arturo Salinas Jr., 75, of San Antonio, Texas, who left this world on April 4, 2025, surrounded by his devoted family

Born on March 28, 1950, Arturo was the eldest of three children to proud military parents, Arturo and Stella Salinas. From an early age, Art carried with him a deep sense of duty and patriotism. At just 17 years old, he made the bold decision to leave high school and enlist in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. He served honorably aboard the now-decommissioned USS Floyd County, spending nearly a year overseas and earning the National Defense Service Medal for his courageous service. Even after returning home, he never forgot those who didn’t make it back—carrying their memory with reverence for the rest of his life.

Fulfilling a promise to his mother, Art returned home and earned his diploma from John F. Kennedy High School in 1971. He went on to build a successful 25-year career in Civil Service at Kelly Air Force Base, working as an Aircraft Metallizer, where his attention to detail and work ethic left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Arturo was a man of quiet strength, deep loyalty, and boundless generosity. In retirement, he found his greatest joy in family life. He was a proud and loving grandfather—his heart instantly softening for his grandkids, who affectionately knew him as the world’s best grandpa.

He was also a pitmaster in his own right, known for his mouthwatering homemade smoked brisket and legendary BBQs that brought family and friends together. He was a regular at veteran gatherings, sharing stories, laughs, and honoring the brotherhood he cherished. Art never met a stranger—his generosity knew no bounds, and if you were in need, he’d give you the last dollar in his wallet or the shirt off his back without hesitation.

Arturo is preceded in death by his beloved parents, Arturo and Stella Salinas. He is survived by his loving daughter, Pamela (David) Gil Ramirez, and his adoring grandchildren: Nathan David, Erik Joshua, Audrey Isabella, and Luke Bradley Ramirez. He is also survived by his sister Jane (Pete) Kotara, his brother Frank (Virginia) Salinas, and his extended family including nephews Frank (Marina) Salinas and family (Daren, Malainah and Xavier), Peter Michael Kotara, and grandson-in-law Devon Shane Wood.

A visitation and memorial service will be held on April 18th at 6:00 PM at Sunset Northwest Funeral Home in San Antonio. A committal service will be held at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery on April 30, 2025 at 2:15 with military honors

Arturo Salinas Jr. will be remembered not only for his service to country, but for his enormous heart, unshakable loyalty, and the way he made everyone feel like family. His legacy lives on in every meal shared, every act of kindness paid forward, and in the love of those who called him dad, grandpa, brother, and friend.