Raymond Jacob Salaz

Raymond Jacob Salaz, 78, of Clinton, Utah passed away on February 16, 2023. 

Ray was born in Denver Co, on September 29th 1944 to Elio and Frances Martinez. He graduated from Ben Lomond High school in 1963.  Not long after he went on the road touring all over the west coast with his band, The Aquanauts. He was living his passion playing Rock-N-Roll on his guitar, until he was drafted into the US Army in 1965 where he proudly served as a helicopter crew chief for two years.

Upon returning to Ogden, he continued to play in numerous local bands where he met Jan Nielsen in 1971 (later divorced) and together they had three beautiful daughters.  He then attended Weber State University and graduated with a Bachelors in Psychology with a minor of Anthropology. He was President of the Chicano Club while attending school.  Ray was recruited by the Department of Corrections and worked as an Adult Probation and Parole Officer for 20 years. He was also a radio station DJ for KSVN Spanish Hour for 20 years. He was a servant of God and taught Sunday School while serving as a Deacon in his local church for many years.  He was involved with the Rescue Mission, Pregnancy Care Center, and Food Bank ministries. He used his musical gifts to Praise Jesus in the churches he served. In 2013 his eyes twinkled when he saw Jana O'Brien and they have been together every day since. 

Ray held many titles in this life, from Rock Star to Peace Officer. but his favorite role was being a father, grandfather and husband. He was our number one fan, always there to offer his love, support, and encouragement.

Raymond was preceded in death by his parents, Elio and Frances Martinez, brother Joseph Salaz (Sandra), and sister Marjorie Salaz Martinez (Esau).

Raymond is survived by the love of his life, Jana O'Brien. His three Daughters, Janica Salaz Davis (Justin), Jessica Salaz Hanrion (Mark), and Jno Rae Salaz. His grandchildren, Faith Salaz Ortiz (Joe), Ashley Salaz, Anthony Salaz, Christian Call, Jacob Salaz, Gabriel Villastrigo. Raymond was so proud to become the great grandfather to Sophia Raymon Ortiz and Esaius Michael Call. Raymond was a beloved father and grandfather figure to Kristie Roberts (Matt) and children Corbyn, Tucker, Lucas, Presley. Erin O'Brien. Sean O'Brien (Amanda) and children Molly, Colin, Megan, Ethan. Multiple nieces and nephews are loved members of the family.

The family would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the LVAD team, Cardiovascular ICU and Cardiovascular Medical Unit, at the University of Utah for the additional 8 wonderful years we were able to share with Ray due to the exceptional medical care and the benefit of the heart pump he received.

Celebration of Life service will be held Friday February 24, 2023 at 6:30 pm at Myers Mortuary 5865 S. 1900 W., Roy Utah.

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