Consuelo “Chelo” V. Salas, 93, a resident of Bayard, NM entered eternal rest Thursday February 13 at her residence. She was born on November 4, 1926 in Santa Rita to Juan and Maria Valerio. During the Great Depression she worked for Kennecott on the railroad. She then worked in the Nursing Department at the Santa Rita hospital which she loved. She learned so much about compassion, empathy, and caring for others which she carried throughout her life. In 1955 she married her loving husband of 60 years, Jose M. Salas. Together they raised three beautiful daughters (her jewels). They lived their marriage encounter in 1976, where she met and mentored many couples. She was a devoted catholic who served in many ministries throughout the years. She became a cursillista in 1978 and lived her life De Colores after that. Chelo was a great cook. She made the best “vates” and no one could forget her famous Friday night red enchiladas. She was always praying and rooting for her Cobre Indians, no matter what sport. Chelo enjoyed gambling, singing, dancing, laughing, playing games, and most importantly spending time with all of her family. She had a huge heart and welcoming arms for everyone.
She is survived by her three daughters; Lucy Arellano and husband Gary who she loved like her own; Priscilla Laurent and husband John; Dora Summy and husband Scott; grandchildren Brenda, Sammy, Randy, Jocelyn, Monica, Kristen, Kari, Melyssa, Steven, Dylan and Erica; seventeen great-grandchildren whom she loved so much. She is also survived by sister-in-laws Beatrice Valerio and Esther French, brother-in-law Luis Morales, special compas Juan Alaniz, and David and Virginia Castanon; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Pepe Salas; grandsons Johnny Joe Laurent and Bryan Summy; and all of her siblings. Visitation will be Tuesday, February 18 from 5-6pm at Terrazas Funeral Chapels with the holy rosary being recited by Deacon David Castañon to begin at 6pm. The funeral liturgy will be celebrated on Wednesday, February 19 at 9:30am at Hurley Infant Jesus Shrine with Father Casmir Anozie officiating. Concluding service and interment will follow at Fort Bayard National Cemetery where she will be laid to rest with her husband. Pallbearers will be Sam and Randy Arellano, Robert Salas, Steven and Dylan Summy, Antonio Trivizo, Charles Salas, and Gilbert Valerio. Honorary pallbearers will be the rest of her grandchildren. Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels “Trusted care for the ones you love” ~ 575-537-0777. To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapels.com.