Juan "Coach Batman" Salazar Jr.

On September 18, 2024, the angels played their trumpets as the children in heaven lined up to welcome their new Coach, Juan Salazar, Jr., aka Coach Batman, dressed in his black and gold representing Batman, a character he could relate to as one willing to give the self-sacrifice of himself, and his time to help. He helped by mentoring the youth from our community leaving them and their families with long lasting impressions on lessons of a loving life. Juan Salazar was affectionately known throughout his community on earth as Coach Batman. He was a beacon of positivity and strength, guiding young lives for 48 years with a loving, funny, and adventurous spirit. Juan was an avid Astros Baseball Fan along with a hard-core Dallas Cowboys Fan. Born on June 19, 1961, in Corpus Christi, Texas, Juan's journey was one marked by passion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to the youth and the families he served. His legacy of teaching the youth so many life lessons using the game of baseball, basketball, football, volleyball and soccer will live on forever.
Juan was a man who taught his family to first love God, and then each other so that their love would serve as a genuine presence of God. In 1980, Juan met his soul mate, Minerva Mungia Salazar and married her in 1982. Together they had three amazing sons, Juan Domingo Salazar (Krystalene), Aaron Jacob Salazar (Tiffany Taylor) and Mike Orlando Salazar (Allie Cavazos) who continue today to deliver their father's love and compassion through education, music and in preparation to practice law. The joy of his life further multiplied with the arrival of his grandchildren, Juan David Salazar, Mikey Orlando Salazar, Ariana Faith Salazar, and McKenzie Balderas, each a testament to the love and guidance he provided.
Juan's early years were spent in the warm embrace of his family in Corpus Christi. His mother, Leonor Salazar still lives in the warmness of the house he was raised in. Juan remained close to his brother Rick Salazar as they reminisced about missing their brother, Roumaldo Salazar, and father, Juan Salazar, Sr. who preceded Juan in passing. Coach Batman's impact was immeasurable, as he brought laughter, joy, and a sense of adventure to every practice and game. His ability to connect with each person on a deep and personal level was his superpower, earning him a place in the hearts of many, including his special dogs, Macho and Buddy, who were his loyal companions. Juan's extended family of uncles, especially his Tio Lupe Salazar, aunts especially his Aunt Norma Garcia, cousins, nephews, nieces and sister-in-laws and brothers-in-laws and the vast baseball family community members all felt the warmth of his generous spirit.
Education was a cornerstone of Juan's life, and he pursued his passion for justice and order by studying Criminal Justice at Del Mar College, where he earned a two-year degree. His academic achievements, however, were only a prelude to what would become his true life's work: dedicating 48 years to the youth of his community through coaching many sports but ultimately falling in deep love with the game of baseball. Juan's influence extended beyond the field, as he became a father figure, mentor, and friend to countless young individuals. His unwavering commitment was not just to the game but to the development of character, discipline, and teamwork in the hearts of his players.
As we celebrate the life of Juan Salazar, Jr., we are reminded of the profound impact one individual can have on the world. His story is a testament to the power of love, dedication, and the human spirit. Let us carry forward the lessons he imparted: to live with passion, to serve with a full heart, and to never underestimate the influence of a coach who cared deeply for the future of every child he met.
Coach Batman may have left the field, but his spirit remains with us, urging us to play the game of life with the same enthusiasm, integrity, and joy he demonstrated every day. Let us honor his memory by embodying the values he lived by and by continuing to inspire the world, one young heart at a time, just as he did. His legacy is not just in the games won or the skills taught but in the lives he enriched with his presence. His laughter, his kindness, and his adventurous soul will be remembered as the hallmarks of a life well-lived.
The family would like to give special thanks to the Legacy Sports Complex and the Bocanegra Family for their unwavering commitment to the Celebration of Life for Juan Salazar. We also thank the West Oso Class of 79' for their contributions to Juan's life celebration. We thank John Terry, Benjamin and Bradley Terry for the numerous trips they made to Houston to visit with their Coach and friend and so many others that prayed continuously for us. We also offer our condolences to all the children and families affected by the loss of our husband, father, grandfather and friend. He will be missed to a degree he never understood because he gave so selflessly without expecting anything in return.