Vilsen Salinas

Vilsen Salinas was born August 31, 1942, to Viyer and Frances Salinas in Karnes City, TX. He was the second oldest of 5 children. Vilsen graduated from Lubbock Cooper High School in 1961. He then attended Texas Tech University, where he received his B.A. degree. He participated in ROTC and was extremely proud to have been the first hispanic to join the Saddle Tramp Spirit Organization at Texas Tech. Upon completion, Vilsen answered the call to service and was an Army Lt. in Vietnam. He led over 180 convoys, as the "Scout Driver", hauling ammunition. Surviving the conflict, he was honorably discharged. Vilsen then went on to the prestigious George Washington University to pursue a law degree. He began his career as one of the first few Hispanics to practice law in Lubbock, Texas. In the summer of 2023, he received a certificate from the Texas State Bar Association for 50 years of dedicated and honorable service. Vilsen loved his family and community. He will truly be missed by many.
Vilsen is survived by children, Kimberley Cook and husband, Mike of Mesa, Arizona and grandchildren Logan, Kendal and Lawsen Bellar; Jason Salinas and wife, Heather, of Lubbock, Texas and granddaughter Hannah; Michael Salinas and wife, Shana of Parker, Colorado and granddaughter Keleigh; siblings, Ben Salinas and Yolanda Salinas.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Viyer and Frances Salinas; siblings, Army Salinas and Gloria Salinas. We would like to thank Heroes for Homes, as well as the nurses and staff at University Medical Center for the care and love they gave to our Dad.
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