Christopher Salinas, Sr.

Chris Salinas Sr., 63, of Albuquerque, NM, passed away on November 3rd, 2023.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Chris Salinas Sr., who peacefully left this world on November 3rd, 2023. He was born on May 2nd, 1960 to Helen and Jose Salinas in Prince George, BC, Canada. Chris Salinas Sr. was a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, and grandpa. He was hard-working, selfless, and committed to providing for his family.

Chris Sr. is survived by Helen (mother); Jake (brother); Susan (wife); Vanessa, Chris, Aiden, and Noah (daughter, son-in-law, and grandsons); Chris Jr. (son); Destiny, Gabe, and Kalia (daughter, significant other, and granddaughter). He was preceded in death by Jose (father), Cecilia (sister), and Frank (brother).

Chris was loved by so many. He was so giving of himself, willing to help anyone and everyone. Most turned to him in times of need because he had such great intuition for how things worked. Definitely earns the title, jack of all trades. He always knew what to do in any given situation.

Chris and Susan met just shy of 42½ years ago. Both played softball for a good part of their relationship and they loved watching any kind of sport together. They started a family together, ending with three children. Vanessa Sonnenberg, the oldest and married to Chris Sonnenberg, gave them 2 handsome grandsons, Aiden Sanchez and Noah Sonnenberg. Their middle child, Chris Salinas Jr., will carry on his name and legacy. Destiny Salinas, the youngest who is in a 9 year relationship with Gabe Torres, brought a precious little granddaughter into this world, Kalia Torres. He had so much love for them all.

Chris had a passion for sports and friendships. He made so many friends throughout his life. Once a friend, always a friend. He grew up playing baseball and softball, making many lasting friendships along the way. His father, Jose, was in the military and border patrol, which meant they moved a few times growing up. He was born in Canada while they were stationed there, but moved to Carlsbad, NM, El Centro, CA, and eventually ending in Albuquerque, NM.

Chris worked in the construction industry for his entire career, ending with Northern Constructors Inc. as an Executive Supervisor.

A rosary and funeral service to celebrate Chris Salinas Sr.'s life will be held at 10:30am on Saturday, December 2nd, 2023 at Sangre de Cristo Catholic Church (8901 Candelaria Rd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87112). For the celebration of his life, please come in comfortable, lively attire.

A burial ceremony will take place in the Gate of Heaven Catholic Cemetery on December 28, 2023 at 1:00 PM. (7999 Wyoming Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109). Lastly, a reception will be held following the burial ceremony at APWU Local 380 (401 Kinley Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87102).

Chris Salinas Sr.'s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. We will forever remember his joyful spirit. He touched the lives of many and will be dearly missed.