age 91, of East Chicago, IN passed away Saturday, October 31, 2015, with his family by his side. Robert was born in Joliet, IL to Juan Gregorio and Maria Salinas of San Luis Potosí, Mexico.
Robert is survived by his loving wife Esther Lopez Salinas; children: Maria (late Vincent) Salinas-Garza, Robert (Kathy) Salinas, Susan Duda, Cynthia (Gonzalo) Herrera, Gerard (Dr. Marie Jay) Salinas and Patricia (Victor) Werner; grandchildren: Nicole, Michael and father Victor Duda; Justeen and Jackie Garza; David and Ryan Salinas; Penelope Werner; siblings: Juan Gregorio Salinas, Jovita Salinas and Carmen Covarrubias, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by son David Patrick, brother Valentín and sister Ignacia.

Robert was a true family man, a devoted husband who cherished the time spent with his children and grandchildren. A member of Inland Steel's 25 Year Club, he retired from the mill, where he was known as "Papa Smurf," after 45 years of service. Bob was an avid Cubs and Bears fan and played minor league baseball in his youth. He was committed to his Catholic faith as a Guadalupano and Cursillista. The family would especially like to thank caregiver Estela Larios, Assured Home Health's Maria, Olivia, Virginia, Mindy, and the staff of Community Hospital.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, November 5, 2015 with a 10:00 AM Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church 3510 Deodar St. East Chicago, IN with Fr. Robert Gehring officiating. Robert will lie in state at the church from 9:00 AM until time of mass. At rest St. John/St. Joseph Cemetery Hammond, IN. Friends may visit with the family on Wednesday, November 4, 2015 from 2:00-8:00 PM at the Solan Pruzin Funeral Home & Crematory 14 Kennedy Ave Schererville, IN.