Juanita Salaz

January 14, 1931 – May 29, 2026

Juanita Salaz (née Martinez), age 95, passed away peacefully on May 29, 2026.

Born on January 14, 1931, in East Chicago, Indiana, Juanita was the daughter of Ignacio and Felicitas Martinez. She was raised in the Harbor section of East Chicago alongside her two brothers and five sisters in a large, close-knit family. The values of faith, hard work, and devotion to family that she learned growing up remained with her throughout her life.

Juanita was the beloved wife of the late Michael Manuel Salaz, with whom she shared 52 years of marriage. Together they built a loving family.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Michael Manuel Salaz; her sons, Michael J. Salaz and Thomas J. Salaz; her parents, Ignacio and Felicitas Martinez; her brothers, Thomas (late Connie) Martinez and Louis (late Juanita) Martinez; and her sisters, Alice (late Frank) Rangel, Mary (late Anthony) Galindo, and Esther (late Louis) Serna.

Juanita is survived by her sisters, Rebecca (late Julius) Sanchez and Lola (late Jose) Arredondo; her daughter, Carol (Rick) Dougherty, their children: Kara (Chris) Brown, Erin (Shelby)Jones; her son, Richard (Pattie) Salaz their children: Suzanna Nevarez, Robert Jr., Brandon, and Luke; her daughter-in-law, Carol Salaz, widow of Michael J. Salaz, their children: Ashley, Michael, and Charlie (Samantha) Salaz; her great grandchildren: Abigail, Eva, Jude, Xander, Julianna, Paige, Hayley, Noah, and Ellie; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Juanita fiercely loved her family and friends. She had a generous heart, always caring for others and offering support whenever it was needed. Family was the center of her life. 

Juanita was also known for her wonderful cooking, which brought family and friends together throughout the years. Her meals were made with love, and her carrot cake became a favorite that will be fondly remembered by all who were fortunate enough to enjoy it.

A devout Catholic, Juanita’s faith guided her throughout her life. She was a woman of prayer who faithfully prayed not only for her family, but for friends, neighbors, and anyone in need. Her faith was reflected in the compassion, kindness, and selflessness she showed to others each day.

Juanita’s kindness, strength, unwavering faith, and unconditional love leave a lasting legacy that will continue through the generations she helped nurture. While her family grieves her loss, they take comfort in knowing she has been reunited with her beloved husband, Michael, and so many cherished family members who went before her.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23

May she find eternal peace in the loving embrace of her Savior.

Visitation and Funeral Services

Family and friends are invited to honor and celebrate Juanita’s life on Friday, June 12, 2026, at Calumet Park Funeral Chapel, 7535 Taft Street, Merrillville, Indiana 46410.

Immediate family visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., followed by public visitation from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 12:00 p.m., with interment to follow at Calumet Park Cemetery.

The family welcomes all who knew and loved Juanita to join them in remembering a life filled with faith, family, and love.