Elio Manuel Salazar-Castro

In Loving Memory of Elio Manuel Salazar-Castro
May 16th, 1944 - March 1st, 2025

It is with deep sorrow and love that we announce the sudden passing of Elio Manuel Salazar-Castro, who left us peacefully on March 1st, 2025, at the age of 80.

Elio was born on May 16th, 1944 in Huancarama, Andahuaylas, Peru. He was a remarkable man who touched the lives of everyone he met and was a pillar of love, strength, and wisdom to his family and friends. He devoted his life to his loved ones, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and unwavering support. As a beloved father and grandfather, he was a source of endless love and guidance to his children, always offering a listening ear, a warm hug, a good laugh and words of comfort.

He was the cherished son of the late Maximo Salazar Caceres and Rosario Castro Salazar. He was one of eleven siblings, and he is now reunited in heaven with his predeceased siblings Walter and Betty. His siblings, who remain in loving memory, include Maximo, Atilio, Raul, IriLuz, Gelga, Mary, Gladys, and Doris.

Elio's legacy lives on through his four children: Lesly (Alex), Daphne (Stephen), Jennifer Elia (Alton), and Elio Peter. His grandchildren, Michael, Matthew, Brandon, Amelia, Shaun, AJ Elio, and Madelyn, were the light of his life, and he adored them with all his heart. His love for his family was boundless, and he always made sure they knew they were his ultimate joy.

A man of intellect and passion, Elio attended school and went on to earn a Masters of Education degree in Lima, Peru. His commitment to learning extended throughout his life as he earned multiple certifications in education and programming, eventually working for IBM. He was deeply passionate about cooking and business, which led him to open Elio’s Restaurant—a place where he once poured his heart into his culinary creations, before moving on to new chapters in his life.

As a well-respected figure in the Gainesville community, he was beloved by his friends, clients, and all who had the privilege of knowing him through one of his greatest achievements, Elio’s Services. 

His family and friends will remember him for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering spirit. He enjoyed simple pleasures, such as tending to his garden, feeding his goats, reading his newspaper while relaxing in his favorite red recliner, and spending time with his beloved pets, Buddy and Max. He also had a special bond with horses, which brought him great joy. And because of his love for flowers, his home was often filled with the beauty of his garden and cherished memories of his family.

He also enjoyed gathering with his family and friends, often dining at his favorite local restaurants. He had an infectious love for life, and his warmth and joy will be deeply missed.

The family will receive friends at Memorial Park Funeral Home on Saturday, March 8th, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Elio’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a life well-lived.

Memorial Park Funeral Home, 2030 Memorial Park Rd., Gainesville, Ga. 30504 is in charge of the arrangements.

Send online condolences to www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com