Our beloved father, Gregory Henry Salinas, entered into God’s Kingdom on October 31, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with kidney cancer.

Greg was born on April 23, 1964, in Detroit, Michigan, to Facundo (Frank) Salinas and Maria Flores Salinas. Raised in Southwest Detroit, he grew up with strong family ties and a sense of responsibility that carried into adulthood. Greg was one of eight children, part of a large, close family that shaped the values of loyalty, connection, and devotion he carried throughout his life. Although he spent his childhood in the city, he developed a deep appreciation for the Michigan outdoors. As he grew older, he found peace in nature, especially through fishing and hunting, two pastimes that connected him to the quiet and beauty of the state’s wilderness.

A proud graduate of Southwestern High School, Greg brought his strong work ethic and commitment to family into everything he did. In 1983, he married Lori MacDonald, and together they shared over 18 years of marriage and raised four children: Andrea, Gregory Anthony (Megan), Alexina (Wes), and Olivia, who were the greatest joy of his life.

Greg began working in the drywall finishing trades and later built his own construction company through determination, craftsmanship, and dedication. Even with long workdays, he made time to show up for his children in the ways that mattered most. His love and support were expressed best through his warm sense of humor and his ability to be fully present in the moment. His laughter brought a feeling of ease and connection to every space, and he had a gift for noticing the little details in life, moments so vivid that even now, his presence feels close, as if you can still hear what he would’ve said or the laugh that would’ve followed. Whether he was teaching his kids how to cook, boxing with them in the yard, playing video games, watching movies, or simply sharing time together, Greg had a way of turning ordinary moments into memories.

Greg had a deep love for cooking that began in his mother’s kitchen. He especially loved grilling, a passion he proudly passed down to his son, who continues that tradition today.

Greg was profoundly proud of his children, from his three daughters who served in the military to the years he spent coaching his son, Gregory Anthony, in boxing, guiding him to compete in the Metro-Detroit Golden Gloves, a reflection of the strength and courage he instilled in them. He was proud of Andrea’s love for the outdoors and the hobbies they shared, of Alexina carrying his entrepreneurial spirit into her own career, and of Olivia’s dedication to her students as a teacher in Southwest Detroit, the community where he was born and raised.

He was a devoted grandfather to five grandchildren: Jayden Clemons, Natalie Kiker, Alec Powell, Lillian Salinas, and Lainey Salinas. He cherished teaching them how to fish and sharing moments filled with patience, laughter, and love.

In his later years, Greg found joy in simple, meaningful experiences such as camping, relaxing at the beach, attending concerts with loved ones, and watching boxing matches that reminded him of earlier days. His presence was steady and warm, and he loved with a loyalty that will never be forgotten.

Greg is preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Maria; his brother, James; and his nephews, Bobby Marshall and Frank Radolfi. He is survived by his children, grandchildren, and many beloved family members, including his siblings Rosemary Norris, Irene Salinas, Mimi (Allen) Swantek, Cyndi Salinas, Carlos Salinas, and Mario Salinas.

“Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” — Joshua 1:9

Greg lived these words with courage, with heart, and with an unwavering love for his family. His legacy continues in the lives he shaped and the memories that will carry him forward.

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