WESLACO, TX - Encarnacion "E.Z." Salinas III, 66, passed away to be with the Lord on Monday, May 18, 2009 at his residence. He was born November 3, 1942 in Harlingen, TX to Encarnacion Jr. and Guadalupe Garcia Salinas.

Mr. E.Z., as he was fondly known among his many students and colleagues, was an educator for over 25 years at Weslaco, Mercedes and Donna I.S.D. His passion was teaching and he spent the last 10 years at Donna High School. Even though he retired some years ago, he continued serving his school as a substitute teacher. He was also a small business owner, having taken the reins of the Robles Superette in Mercedes.

E.Z.'s love and affection for nature included the discovery and development of the "KIERRA" lemon, a citrus fruit named in honor of his first granddaughter. He was also an avid treasure hunter. He was a loving and caring father who will be dearly missed by his children and family.

He is preceded in death by his father. He is survived his daughter, Melinda Damone (Robert) of Redondo Beach, CA; 2 sons, Michael Salinas and Matthew Salinas (Valerie), both of Grand Rapids, MI; his mother, Guadalupe G. Salinas of Weslaco, TX; 2 brothers, Eduardo Salinas (Rubi) of Lyford, TX and Alfredo Salinas (Diana) of Weslaco, TX; 2 sisters, Leonor Barragan (Robert) of Sebastian, TX & Irene Caballero (Eduardo) of Mercedes, TX. E.Z. was blessed with 5 grandchildren, Dominic Hector Salinas, Kierra and Christopher Damone, Isabella Salinas and Jarryd. Also surviving are numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held 10:00 a.m. today, Friday, May 22, 2009 at Guerra Funeral Home of Weslaco - Chapel of The Angels. Celebrant will be Deacon Jesus Aguayo.

Arrangements are under the direction of Guerra Funeral Home of Weslaco, Inc., 2602 N. Texas Ave., Weslaco, TX. (956) 969-1461.

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