Our hearts are heavy this week as our beloved Omar Salazar left our world on August 14, 2023. Services to remember Omar are this Saturday, and all those who wish to post memories are encouraged to do so on his Ever Loved page.
Omar lived 55 years with his heart wide open. He was a beacon of light in the world for many, an example for all about the power of positivity, perseverance, and commitment to other. Omar was a dedicated father, a leader, a philanthropist, and a kind soul who brightened the lives of those who enjoyed his company.
“The sky is not the limit; the sky is the minimum.”
Professionally, Omar served as senior crew chief at ROCKin’teriors, as an expert in natural stone fabrication and installation. Since 2008, Omar was instrumental in recruiting and forming the fabricator team at ROCKin’teriors. Omar spent nearly 40 years of his life creating amazing experiences for friends in the field of construction and general contracting. He specialized in luxury interior and exterior applications for residential and commercial builders. Omar’s professional career began as a tradesman among the brotherhood of carpenters in Beverly Hills, California, which enabled him to obtain the designation of master craftsman.
He led the ROCKin’teriors effort to become accredited by the Natural Stone Institute, and the area’s first fabrication company to be certified in ultra-compact and sintered stones. In both 2018 and 2019, the team of skilled craftsmen that Omar helped to recruit and train was recognized nationwide as Fabricator of the Year by the International Surface Fabricators Association. He also shepherded ROCKin’teriors’ participation in the Gary Sinise Foundation R*I*S*E program, helping to build accessible homes for severely wounded war veterans.
Omar was passionate about sustainability and his problem-solving expertise was often sought out by general contractors, designers, and stone workers across the industry.
Until his passing, Omar was a lifelong volunteer with the Boys Scouts of America. As a dedicated Den Leader, he molded the next generation of youth into leaders. In 2021, his entire group earned Eagle Scout rank as the highest achievement in scouting.
Omar is survived by his daughter Liliane Salazar, his sons Sheldon Salazar and Stuart Salazar, his sisters Arlene Salazar and Laura Grandlienard, his brothers Marlin Salazar and Aaron Salazar. His extended family also includes cousins Elizabeth Sanchez, Moses Aleschir Lacayo, Rebecca Trevino, and nephew Nehemah Salazar.
Donations can be made to the Salazar children college fund, or Boy Scouts of America, Tuscarora Council.
Services to Remember Omar Salazar
Saturday, August 19, 2023
- 12:30pm – Funeral Service at White Plains United Methodist Church – 313 Southeast Maynard Rd., Cary, NC 27511
- Immediately Following – Internment at Mont Lawn Memorial Park – 2911 S. Wilmington St., Raleigh, NC 27603
- Immediately Following – Reception at ROCKin’teriors – 230 Hampton Woods Lane, Raleigh, NC 27607
“Because of Omar’s many talents, skills and vision, a historic home was saved from demolition in Wilson. Without Omar, there would have been a vacant lot instead of a house gaining new life.” — Kathy Bethune
“I remember Omar as a little boy when my mom would go to the Salazar home to buy veils in bulk from sister Cruzita. Omar was a true salesman even then, offering his merchandise as a little boy with the most contagious smile.” — Maricela Maffey Lujan
“He was an exceptional man who radiated positivity and integrity.” –Ellen Conroy
“Omar had an amazing, warm heart, and was a fun and lovable guy. I enjoyed every time being around you. Omar was an extremely talented and hard worker, an inventor, a problem-solver and trailblazer.” — Jonathan Dawson
“I cannot think of a nicer man! I LOVED spending time with him.” — Pete
