Silviano Maestas of Montrose passed away early Wednesday morning, Aug. 1, 2012 at the San Juan Living Center with his loving family by his side.

Known by his nicknames “Silvie” or “Sal,” Sal was born July 12, 1946 in La Puenta, N.M. to Federico and Margarita (Ulibarri) Maestas. Sal grew up in the Olathe area in Colorado, where he graduated from high school. Sal then attended TTI College in Colorado Springs, Colo., graduating with a degree in legal administration.

Sal proudly served his country by joining the United States Navy in 1965. Serving 3 1/2 tours in Vietnam, he was honorably discharged in 1969. Sal proudly worked for Community Options for over 20 years as a legal aid.

Sal married Trinie Lopez on Oct. 6, 1996 in Montrose, Colo. Sal and Trinie had been high school sweethearts and after many years were able to find each other again. Sal was a member of the American Legion; he also was a member of MADA, volunteering for MADA and Share Colorado. Sal was an avid Seahawks fan and enjoyed making his choke cherry wine. Sal had a beautiful collection of Princess Diana memorabilia. He was also very artistic, and enjoyed beadwork.

Sal is survived by his beloved wife, Trinie of Montrose; his sons, Fred Maestas of Montrose; Kent Lobato (Tammy) of Colorado Springs, Kurt Lobato of Montrose; his daughters, Michelle Maestas of Montrose and Marlene Fleenor (Scott), of Liberty, Mo.; his brothers, Joe Ulibarri (Magda) of Mancos, Isidor Ulibarri (Nancy) of Montrose; and his sisters, Bernice Cross (Jerry) of Albert, Kan., Olivia Garduno (Carlos) of Denver; JoAnn Burnett (Leroy) of Olathe, and Maxine Lopez of Olathe. Sal is also survived by numerous grandchildren, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins, and by his beloved dogs, Chopo and Cupid.

Sal is preceded in death by his parents, Federico and Margarita; and by sisters, Tina Trujillo, Alexandrina Lopez and Victoriana Gonzales.

A Vigil and Rosary in honor of Sal was held Friday, Aug. 3, at the Crippin Funeral Home Chapel. A Funeral Mass in Loving Memory of Sal was held Saturday, Aug. 4, at St. Mary Catholic Church with Father Mike Walker officiating. The service concluded at the church. Inurning of cremains will take place at a later date in Cortez with military honors.

Condolences may be made to the family at www.crippinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the direction and care of Crippin Funeral Home, 802 E. Main St., Montrose, CO 81401, (970) 249-2121.