Elias "Buda" Salas Jr.

Elias "Buda" Salas Jr. entered eternal rest on November 17, 2024, at his home after battling a long-time illness at the age of 52. Buda was born in San Antonio on September 22, 1972, to parents Elias Leija Salas and Maria (Madrigal) Rocha.
He is preceded in death by his father Elias; his daughter, Micaela Salas; his grandparents, Jose and Celia Madrigal; aunt, Belia M. Rangel; uncles, Emitt Rangel and Edward "Lalo" Garza; and nephew, Jonah Angel Salas. Buda leaves behind to carry on his legacy and cherish his memories; his mother Mary Rocha and stepfather Ruben; son, Malachi "Chop"; Mandy Suarez; sisters, Melissa Salas and Gina Aguilar (husband Jesse); brother, Raymond (wife Jennifer); nieces and nephews; Alexis (Joseph), Noah, Tito, Amri, Miranda, Julius, Mateo, Fabian, Ozrick, Jahsiah, and Jalix. His long-time love, Jessica and her daughters, Sinica and Danica; numerous other loving family members and friends.
His family was the center of his life, he spent most of his time cooking for them or helping them with whatever needed to be done. Everyone special to him had a nickname – that's usually how he expressed his love, by giving you a hard time, but at the end of the day he was there when you needed him. He would give you his last dollar because to him it was "only money". If Buda wasn't with family, you could find him and Chop in the "Bozos" garage working on or tinkering with his other passion – his race car "Micaela". Many hours of blood and sweat were in that garage and on the racetrack. He was so proud of Malachi's accomplishments especially since he has a passion for racing. Malachi has proudly followed in his dad's footsteps. The stories, the laughter, the frustrations, and the memories made there will carry on forever. His caring nature, his hard-working hands, and his golden heart will be missed by many.
Sincere thanks and appreciation to the staff of All County Hospice, especially Dobelia who had been assisting Buda at the start of the year for wound care. They grew a special bond, and she became family. Also, thank you to Dr. Francisco Torres for your kindness, support, and care for Buda throughout the years. Our family thanks you and will keep all of you in our hearts and prayers.
As we come together to honor his memory, let us remember the love he brought into our lives. Though he has left us, may Buda's spirit continue to guide us in all that we do.