Steven Salazar

Steven Allen Salazar, age 36, of Garnett, Kansas, unexpectedly passed away on June 5, 2025.

Steven was born on November 18, 1988, to Roy and Rhonda (Ford) Salazar in Los Angeles, California. When Steven was three months old, the family made a move to Houston, Texas, before making their home in Garnett, Kansas. Steven attended school in Garnett, where he excelled in track and field, holding the school record for the 4x100, also qualified for state in the 100 and 200 meter dash his senior year. Steven graduated with the Class of 2007 from Anderson County High School. As an adult he excelled in management in every career path he pursued including restaurant management, car sales and bank management. He then found a passion in his woodworking skills, where he learned to create absolute art. He was gifted with the craft of woodworking.

Steven was united in marriage to Nicki (Schloetzer). This union was blessed with two precious boys. They later parted ways but had the best interest in the boys' lives. Becoming a father was Steven's greatest joy. He was deeply proud of his boys and cherished every moment with them. After believing he might never have children, he was overwhelmed with gratitude to be blessed with two little "minis" who mirrored his love and energy. Steven found joy in sharing special moments with them-fishing trips, late-night chocolate ice cream runs, and adventurous go-kart rides.

Steven had a gift for making connections with others-he never met a stranger. He had a heart of gold and was always the first to offer help, even giving the shirt off his back to someone in need. Known for his unforgettable smile, contagious laugh, and magnetic personality, Steven left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Having grown up in Houston, Steven was a loyal Houston Texans fan, though his family had recently begun to convert him into a Kansas City Chiefs supporter. He had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and spent much of his time hunting, fishing, and enjoying nature. Steven also had a passion for cooking and grilling, often preparing delicious meals for those he loved. In recent years, he had taken up pool and was becoming quite the skilled player. Music was a constant in Steven's life-he loved listening to all genres and never missed a chance to sing along, filling any room with his voice and energy.

Steven's legacy will live on in the lives of his sons and all who were fortunate to know and love him. His warmth, generosity, and vibrant spirit will be deeply missed.

Steven was preceded in death by paternal grandmother, Enedelia Salazar; maternal grandfathers, Sheldon Gedrose and Lonny Lee Ford; uncles, Lonny Allen Ford and Christopher Michael Gedrose; God-mother, Martha Salazar; bonus- grandmother, Becky Hiles.

He is survived by his parents, Rhonda (Ford) Salazar of Richmond, Kansas and Roy Salazar and bonus mother Brianna of Garnett, Kansas; siblings; Roy Salazar Jr. and wife Cheryl of Garnett, Kansas, Veronica Rice and husband Joey of Lone Jack, Missouri, Brynleigh Hiles of Garnett; sons, Landon and Carson Salazar of Wakarusa, Kansas; eight nieces and nephews; and many other family and friends near and far.

Funeral Services will be held on Friday, June 13, 2025, at 2:00 P.M. at Feuerborn Family Funeral Service. Steven's family will greet friends on Thursday evening, June 12, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Garnett Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Steven's sons education fund or WINGS and can be left in the care of the funeral home. Condolences for the family can be left at www.feuerbornfuneral.com.