Ismael H Salas' Obituary
In Loving Memory
Ismael H. Salas
Mass Service
Wednesday, June 22, 2022 12:00pm
Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church
1717 El Monte Avenue, Sacramento, CA 95815
Ismae H. Salas was born November 13, 1947 in Los Fresnos, Texas to Aurelio and Maria De Jesus.
He was the third eldest of 13 children, and one of 8 boys. From an early age, Ismael was motivated
by his love for family and his dedication to being a dependable provider. While in his early years he
enjoyed spending time with family and friends, going fishing and bonding with his brothers.
By the age of 17, Ismael held and maintained a vision for his life—he dreamed of having a career with
financial stability, and a loving family. In 1964 Ismael was living in Gonzales, CA, working in the fields
and trucking industry. During that time he met Maria Mata; the two fell in love, and soon after
solidified their union. In1965, Ismael and Maria’s happiest moments together were starting their
family in Salinas, California. The pair welcomed Robert, Ismael Jr. and Ilda into their lives, which
filled Ismael and Maria’s life with immeasurable joy and love.
The Salas’ moved to Sacramento, California in 1986. Fully committed to advancing his family, Ismael
often drove 10-15-hour long haul shifts and was given the nickname “Smiley”. While the sacrifice of
his time meant missing memorable moments away from family, it paid off in 2016 when Ismael
retired from Nor-Cal Produce and paid off his home. After 50 years driving trucks, he was proud to
see his children as loving adults with their own families to carry on the Salas name and traditions;
who’d followed in his footsteps in business through trucking; and who danced to the beat of their
heart as an independent college graduate with a fulfilling career.
Ismael was known for more than working to provide for his family and all his beloved pets over the
years. He enjoyed showing off his style and didn’t wait for special occasions to put on his cowboy
boots, RayBans, and cologne; he enjoyed listening to Oldies and Tejano music; and in their private
moments would share a dance with Maria to their favorite songs. Ismael also loved playing Black
Jack, collecting coins, rare dollar bills and looking for those magical winning lottery numbers and
scratchers. He was a huge Dallas Cowboy fan and could be found with the remote in hand watching
the Sunday games.
In 2019, the Salas’ family faced a tremendous challenge when Ismael was suddenly diagnosed with
stage 4 lung cancer, and miraculously beat the odds he was given. He continued his battle for nearly
three years with his family by his side every step of the way. Ismael took his last breath on June 9,
2022 at 7:12am with Maria, his son Ismael Jr., and sister Carmela with him as he transitioned.
Shortly thereafter, Robert, Ilda and several of his grandchildren surrounded him with love. It is
without surprise that Ismael had the strength to celebrate with his wife another year of marriage on
this day, 57 years of union.
Ismael is survived by his wife, Maria Salas, three children Robert Salas (married to Gabriela), Ismael
Jr. Salas,, Ilda Salas. 5 grandchildren, 2 grandpuppies, his 7 siblings, 14 great-grandchildren, nieces,
nephews, family and friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents, 5 brothers, and recently his grandson Matthew Salas.
What’s your fondest memory of Ismael?
What’s a lesson you learned from Ismael?
Share a story where Ismael's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Ismael you’ll never forget.
How did Ismael make you smile?
