Carlos Salas passed peacefully on May 15, 2024, surrounded by his loving family at the age of
88. He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, humility, and strength that will forever
illuminate our lives.
Born on March 2, 1936, in Potosí, Bolivia, Carlos was the beloved son of Juan Salas and
Margarita Ortuño. From a young age, he was instilled with values of hard work, integrity, and
compassion that would shape the course of his life. Carlos was a devoted husband, father,
grandfather, and friend, whose unwavering love and support enriched the lives of those around
him.
Carlos met his wife Adriana in his teenage years, and their connection was instantaneous. The
two shared 67 years of marriage, filled with love, laughter, a passion for soccer, and steadfast
devotion to each other. Their marriage was a testament to the sanctity of love, kindness, and
unshakeable commitment to one another. Carlos was a devoted husband who loved to shower his
wife with affection every opportunity he had.
Together, Carlos and Adriana, were blessed with 7 children: Ruben, Rosario, Janette, Adriana,
Claudia, Solange, and Karla, whom they raised with endless love and affection. Carlos poured
his heart, and soul into his role as a father and provider. He loved his children dearly and was
always so proud of their accomplishments and the families they created.
Professionally, Carlos devoted himself to serving his community by working for the
Administración de Aduana Nacional de Bolivia, from which he retired after many years. His
tenure is a testament to his work ethic, integrity, and innate kindness. Even in retirement, his
legacy continued as airport personnel welcomed him screaming "Carlitos! Carlitos!" upon his
return to Bolivia.
Carlos was blessed with an abundance of grandchildren. To them, he was more than just a
grandfather; he was "Papa Carlos," a beacon of wisdom, love, and unwavering support.
Papa Carlos had a special bond with his grandchildren, whom he adored and loved beyond
measure. He would walk his grandchildren to school, make them breakfast, help with math
homework, and everything else in between. These tasks might have felt natural to him in those
moments, but now are cherished memories by the grandkids who share them with him.
In the last chapter of his life, Carlos demonstrated his resilience as he faced health challenges.
His youngest daughter, Karla, dedicated herself to caring for her father and providing comfort
and strength. His grandchildren, Lisa, Mike, and Mateo are so grateful to have spent so many
years with Papa Carlos and to have cared for him just as he cared for his grandkids. During this
time, Carlos was also surrounded by his daughters, son, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
He cherished moments spent with family, especially visits from grandchildren that live far away.
Though he may no longer be with us in body, his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who
were fortunate enough to have known him. May we find solace in the cherished memories we
shared with Papa Carlos, and may they serve as a guiding light, illuminating our path with love,
grace, and enduring strength. What a blessing it has been to have known you, to be loved by you,
and to love you, Papa Carlos.

On May 20, 2024, from 10 am -12 pm, we will be honoring Carlos's life at Christ the Redeemer
46833 Harry Byrd Hwy, Sterling, VA 20164.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly for asks donations to be made to the American Stroke
Association, honoring Carlos's memory and the indelible mark he has left on this world.
https://www.stroke.org/