Apolinar C. Salazar, 88, entered eternal rest on July 31, 2026.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, August 7, 2026, at Memorial Services of Iowa (4208 N. Ankeny Blvd).

Born on October 14, 1937, in Combes, Texas, Apolinar was the son of Manuel Salazar and Angelita Salazar and was lovingly raised by his stepmother, Paula Salazar, whose care helped shape the man he became.

Apolinar devoted his life to hard work, spending many years as a farmer and ranch hand. He took great pride in providing for his family and was known for his unmatched work ethic, resilience, and dedication. No matter the task, he approached it with determination and strength.

He shared 67 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Amelia Salazar, and together they built a family rooted in love, laughter, and enduring values.

Outside of work, Apolinar truly enjoyed life. Whether he was fishing, riding motorcycles, dancing, or cheering on his favorite teams—the San Antonio Spurs and the Dallas Cowboys—he found joy in the simple moments and loved sharing them with those around him.

Those who knew Apolinar will remember him as a true character. He had a wonderful sense of humor, loved making people laugh, and was always ready with a joke or a playful smile. His charisma was undeniable, and he often joked that he was “smooth with the ladies,” bringing laughter wherever he went. Beneath that playful spirit was a man of deep love and unwavering devotion to his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather whose legacy will live on through the many lives he touched.

Apolinar’s family finds comfort in knowing that his love, laughter, and strength will remain with them forever. His memory will continue to inspire them, and will remind them to work hard, laugh often, love deeply, and treasure the time they have with one another.

He is survived by his wife, Amelia; children, Maria G. Hoagland, Maria R. (Jeffrey) Eggers, and Apolinar Salazar Jr., who will forever cherish the lessons, love, and memories he gave them. He is also survived by his sisters, Frances Cruz, Juanita Benitez and Mary (Roy) Salazar; brother, Manuel Salazar, Jr.; his grandchildren, Jewlz Salazar, David Hoagland, Maria A. Gonzales, Christian L. Eggers, Amanda Salazar, Apolinar Salazar, III, and Santos J. Salazar; great-grandchildren, Marseilles J. Tolliver, Alcides Coleman, Aricin Huss, Asher J. Borjon; and great-great-grandchildren, Mylah, Serah, and Rayven.

He is preceded in death by his sisters, Hortencia Salazar, Juanita Salazar and Rita Perez; granddaughter, Sarah Hoagland; and great-grandchild, Audric Gonzales.

Forever loved. Forever remembered. Forever in our hearts.

Visitation

Aug

7

Memorial Services of Iowa

4208 North Ankeny Blvd
Ankeny, IA 50023

4:00 PM - 6:00 PM