Tony Salazar was born January 8, 1945 in Bakersfield, CA to Antonio and Delfina Salazar and unexpectedly passed away on March 9, 2011. Mass of the Resurrection will be held Tuesday, March 15, 2011 – 10:00 am at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, interment will immediately follow at Bakersfield National Cemetery. Visitation will be held Monday, March 14, 2011 from 5 -8pm with the Holy Rosary Recitation - 7pm at Hopson-Anspach Family Mortuary. Tony attended Longfellow, Washington Jr. High, and BHS. Unfortunately he was not able to complete high school due to the untimely death of his father. At this time he began to work to help support his mother and siblings. After a few years, Tony then joined the Army. He was a veteran of the Viet Nam War serving two tours. He was awarded The Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal with "V" Device, Meritorious Unit Commendation, National Defense Service Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Viet Nam Service Medal with 3 Bronze Service Stars, Republic of Viet Nam Campaign Medal with Device, Republic of Viet Nam Gallantry Cross with Palm Unit Citation, Republic of Viet Nam Civil Action Honor Medal and First Class Unit Citation. After being discharged, Tony began his long career as a bartender working in Las Vegas and at numerous spots in Bakersfield. Tony is preceded in death by his parents Antonio and Delfina Salazar. Those left to honor his memory are his brother Raymond Salazar and sister Martha Martinez (Albert), niece Elise Gonzales (Frank), niece/Goddaughter Corinne Martinez, nephews Aaron Salazar, Brian Marquez, and Andrew Martinez, along with other family members and many friends who are left with great memories, We have truly lost a wonderful man who'll be greatly missed. Until we meet again. "BONZAI-CROUTON"