Norlito Salazar

Norlito G. Salazar DURHAM - Norlito G. Salazar, 67, died Monday, June 7, 2010 at Duke University Hospital after a long battle with leukemia. He leaves his loving wife of 47 years, Gloria (Sy) Salazar; his daughters, Marina S. Dengate and Laura S. Lawton; his grandchildren, Steven Salazar, Jacob Green, Kristen Dengate, Brandon Johnston, Naomi Johnston, and Riley Lawton; and his sister, Leticia Salazar of the Philippines. Born and raised in Castillejos, Zambales, Philippines, the son of Severino Salazar and Maria (DeGuzman) Salazar, he was a longtime resident of Virginia Beach. In his early years, Mr. Salazar dreamed of being in the United States military. He fulfilled his dream and retired as a chief petty officer from the United States Navy in 1985, after nearly 23 years of valiant service. He then worked for the federal government for 20 years in weapons stock control in Virginia. In his spare time, Mr. Salazar was a part-time DJ and had a lifelong passion for music and dancing with his wife. He was also a licensed HAM radio operator, helping families communicate with their service members while they served overseas. The visitation will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. today, June 11, at Mitchell Funeral Home, 7209 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh. The funeral Mass will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 12, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 11401 Leesville Road, Raleigh, with the burial immediately following at Raleigh Memorial Park, 7501 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Mr. Salazar's name to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.mitchellatrmp.com.