John Paul Salas – June 26, 1935 – September 5, 2026

John Paul Salas passed away on September 5, 2026, in Las Animas, Colorado, at the age of 91. He was born on June 26, 1935, in Denver, Colorado, to Martin and Theresa (Whatley) Salas.

John spent his early years growing up between Higbee and Denver, Colorado. He later made his way to Las Animas, where he graduated from Las Animas High School in 1953. Following high school, John attended Colorado State University for a short time before beginning his working career.

Early in his career, John worked on several area ranches as a cowboy, embracing the hard work and outdoor life that came with ranching. His career later took him back to Denver, where he worked for many years with Frontier Airlines. He eventually joined Southwest Airlines, serving as the Station Operations Manager in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Through his years in the airline industry, John built a career marked by dedication, responsibility, and service.

John will be lovingly remembered by his children, Gregory Andrew Salas, Mark Gerard Salas, Matthew John Salas, and Lavora Lynne Salas; 10 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; as well as many other relatives and a host of friends who were fortunate to know him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Martin and Theresa Salas; his wife, Lavora (Bewley) Salas; infant son, Gerald Brett Salas; sister, Sally (Salas) Martinez; and his grandparents, Chencho and Manuelita Salas.

John lived a long and full life, leaving behind cherished memories and a lasting legacy through his family and the many people whose lives he touched.

Per John’s request, cremation has taken place, and no services are scheduled at this time.

To leave online condolences, please visit www.valleyfuneralcremation.com.  Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Valley Funeral & Cremation in Las Animas, Colorado.