Carmen Salazar

Carmen Salazar, beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away on Monday, December 9, 2024, at the age of 81. Born on April 12, 1943, in Daule, Ecuador, Carmen’s life was a testament to love, faith, resilience, and devotion to the Lord, her family, and her friends.

Carmen was the proud mother of six sons: Tonny Castro, Jimmy Castro, Douglas Castro, Stewart Salazar, Manuel Salazar, and Crecencio Salazar. Her legacy grew to include 15 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren, each enriched by her values, guidance, and love.

Carmen faced many challenges growing up in Ecuador, instilling in her a determination to build a brighter future. With the support of her late ex-husband, Cresencio Salazar, she pursued her dream of moving to the United States to provide greater opportunities for her family. Her tireless efforts laid the foundation for her family’s success and deeply rooted her as a source of love and strength.

After settling in Connecticut, first in Stamford and later in Bridgeport, Carmen practiced her faith at Iglesia Bautista Emanuel in Bridgeport. She also found fulfillment in her long career at Medtronic, retiring at age 73. She was then able to dedicate herself to her passions; cooking, baking, and sewing; leaving her family cherished recipes and treasured traditions. The talented seamstress brought joy and beauty to special occasions through her creations while carrying herself with trademark elegance, reflecting her strength and confidence.

Carmen also nurtured lifelong friendships, offering kindness and encouragement to all who knew her. Her table was always a place of both nourishment and connection, embodying her spirit of love and togetherness. 

Carmen’s deep faith guided her throughout her life, inspiring those around her. Her generosity, wisdom, and light will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Vicente and Rosenda Moran Dumes, and her sisters, Graciela and Amalia. She is survived by her brother, Pedro Dumes, her six sons, her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and countless relatives and friends who will miss her dearly.

A memorial service to celebrate Carmen’s life will be held at Funeraria Luz de Paz in Bridgeport, Connecticut, on December 28, 2024, from 12 PM to 2 PM. In her honor, the family asks you to cherish your loved ones and share a meal together in the spirit of Carmen’s love and hospitality.