How can something be beautiful and sad at the same time?   Today that something is writing my father's testimonial -

so here's my heart to the first man I ever loved - a few words about an extraordinary man, Salvador John Baladez.  He was a man of few words himself - but his timing with those words was impeccable - an art - for he knew exactly what to say, and when to say it. His conversations would leave you laughing, or in awe.

Sal was "that man" who brought comfort just sitting at the kitchen table drinking coffee with you.  He was "that man" you could call in the middle of the night in a bind; and "that man" who would tell you to pull yourself together if you needed to hear it.

He represented one of the greatest generations of America.  The generation that were true

"Minimalists" - they didn't have a choice. He was born in, and his childhood was during The Great Depression.  Born in the "Spanish Colony" of Orchard, Colorado, in 1930, he was the 9th child of Joseph and Angelita Baladez.   This shaped who he was - a sharing, helping, thankful, humble, man.  He was mannerly.  And it would never cross Sal's mind to say "I'm to stressed" or "I can't handle this" or "I can't help you."

He was a proud Army Veteran and served our great country during wartime in Korea.  Sal was a proud hard working man and a loyal member of the Construction Laborers Union - retiring with Hensel Phelps Construction.

In the late 1950s, he was driving down a country road near Weldona, and saw a beautiful blonde haired, green eyed young lady who's car had broken down - she was on her way to a High School dance.  Her name was as fiery as her beauty - Carlotta.  Turned out she was also a dear friend of his sister, Helen.  Their adventures started there - their love, marriage, loyalty, and admiration for each other lasted for 52 plus years.  I (Sally) was born in 1959 and my brother Craig was born in 1963 - we were loved and spoiled by our parents.

Sal lived 93 years with gusto and humor.  He tackled demons  - handled responsibilities - absorbed sorrows - and shared happiness.  And it cannot go unmentioned about his love for food.  He would savor a bowl of fresh beans, tortillas, and jalapeños as much as the juiciest steak.

Salvador was the last man standing of his immediate family (Henry, Jenny, Joe, Margaret, Ramon, Raymond, Basacillica, Felix, Salvador, Helen, Benny).  Knowing this he stepped up his game - as good men will do - he made sure his brothers' and sisters' children - and their children - knew where they came from - telling stories about their parents - especially at the Baladez family reunion last summer.

Sal was a Christian - when his Lord Jesus called him home, he was not afraid, said his goodbyes, and waited.  I would dare say he picked his own day, March 8th, the same day as my brother Craig passed in 2007.

Salvador is survived by me (Sally & Patrick), Grandson Kenny (Jen), Granddaughters Ashleigh

(JR), Rebecca, Jordan; and several Great Grandchildren; many Nephews and Nieces, and Great Nephews and Nieces. He was met on the other side by mama, my brother, his parents, 7 brothers, 4 sisters and so many family and friends I can only imagine the wondrous visiting going on.  Sal's family and friends will be doing him honor in Orchard on April 19th at the Cowboy Church. Rosary at 1pm, Services at 2 pm starting with the 21 gun salute, dinner and visiting to follow.