Zaragoza Salinas, Jr.

Zaragoza Salinas Jr., known affectionally as “Shorty,” was an active member in his community.  Shorty was a loving father and husband. He devoted 38 beautiful years to his wife Delma Salinas, whom he loved very much.

He was an active member of the Knights of Columbus Number 2623, where he once assisted in mentoring the Grand Knights and the Altar Boy Society. Shorty was also a former board member of Los Años De Oro, a member of the Mutualista’s Organization, a member of the Cursillistas de Cristianidad and had served as a Big Brother Mentor.  Shorty was an active member of St. Martin’s Catholic Church Men’s Club. Over the years, Shorty put in countless hours cooking his famous fajitas for the Spring Carnival, helping the sisters of Missionary Daughters of M.P.V.M., and assisting at other churches in town. Anyone that had the privilege of knowing Shorty could see that he was a true disciple of God. During his 20-year career with Sears, Shorty advanced from service technician to home improvement expert, and then to franchise owner. After selling Sears, he became a licensed Allstate insurance advisor and later went to work for Neesen Chevrolet as a car salesman. Although he took a brief sabbatical, Shorty never quite settled down. In 2018, he ran and was elected County Commissioner for Precinct 4, where he supported and advocated for the senior citizens and the underserved community; whether through making jokes, playing bingo, or collecting donated fans for the seniors around Kingsville, Shorty helped brighten their lives. His love for others transcended politics and religion. Shorty was a selfless man who could not say no and saw challenges as opportunity to help find solutions.  Also, he was always quick to ask “Como Vamos” i.e. how are you doing?  And anybody who knew him, knew that when he asked, he was not only sincere, but his question was inclusive of your friends and family.  Shorty worked tirelessly to keep smiles on the people he loved. Although small in stature, Shorty was a Giant at Heart and his love for others. The only thing larger than Shorty was his faith, desire to serve and give back.  It was easy to love Shorty; his heart of Gold, big smile and laugh that would fill up any building no matter how large was genuine and irresistible.  In spite of this Shorty was also a quiet and shy person who disliked being the center of attention.

Despite this Shorty was a quiet and humble person with enormous passion.  When moved, he would easily blush and shed a tear and we knew that we needed to move aside because he was coming to confront the situation with all his might.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Zaragosa Sr. and Enriqueta Salinas; and brother, George Salinas.

He is survived by his wife, Delma Salinas; children, Veronica (Robert) Weaver, Laura S. (Jose) Soria, Anthony Salinas, Stephen (Laura Requenez) Salinas, Marcus Ray Salinas; sisters, Connie (Henry) Luera, Delma (David) Tamez; sister in  law, Zelma Salinas, 7 grandsons; 1 granddaughter 1 great-grandchild, several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Today as we join in this ceremony of life grief stricken and broken hearted to say goodbye to this tireless servant on earth, let us rejoice and be comforted knowing that Shorty is now our servant of God in Heaven.

In keeping with CDC and County Guidelines regarding COVID-19, services for Shorty will be private.  There will be a Public Visitation on Friday, August 7, 2020 from 4 to 7 pm at the J.K. Northway Coliseum, 501 Escondido Rd. in Kingsville followed by a family Rosary.  Private Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2020 at St. Martin Catholic Church with interment following at Santa Gertrudis Memorial Park.  Due to COVID, those attending the visitation, please wear a mask, refrain from hugs, and handshakes to the family.  For the safety of all if you are not feeling well please attend the livestream service from the comfort of your home. God Bless you all for your understanding during this difficult time.

Share words of comfort with the family and access the livestream at www.turcottepipermortuary.com .

Arrangements are under the direction of Turcotte-Piper Mortuary, 205 General Cavazos Blvd., Kingsville, Texas 78363.