On October 12, 1960 James (Jim) Thomas Saltas was born in Salt Lake City to his parents Tom and Mabel Saltas. Jim was raised in Magna and attended Cyprus High School. He was very involved in school, loved playing baseball and was elected Senior Class President.

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Jim continued his education at Southern Utah State College. It was here that he met the love of his life Sharon. They were married on May 24th, 1986. When Sharon passed in 1997, she left a hole in Jim’s heart that never fully healed.

Jim taught for Granite School District for 34 years. He loved teaching US History and being the SBO Advisor at Bennion Jr. High School, but it was the kids that he really loved and talked about. Jim was adored by students and coworkers alike. He loved baseball games and especially the New York Yankees. He was so proud of his Greek heritage and talked of going back to Greece with his “kids” one day. Jim found such joy in being a ‘Papou’ to George, Mabel and Pepper. He never missed a birthday or holiday visit where he would read books, bring gifts and a bag of change he saved between visits.

Jim died February 19, 2023 from the effects of a hemorrhagic stroke. He was preceded in death by his parents Thomas George Saltas, Mabel Saltas and wife Sharon. He is survived by his brothers Stan (Karen) Saltas, George (Tamela) Saltas; nieces Stephanie Saltas, Heather Hayes, Alexie Saltas; nephews Paul (Natalie) Saltas, Thomas (Abbey) Saltas; his three grandchildren George, Mabel and Pepper Saltas and his beloved bird Frankie.

A service will be held at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 E. 10600 So. Sandy, Ut. on Saturday February 25, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. There will be a viewing Friday from 6:00-8:00 pm and one hour prior to services on Saturday. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Jim’s name to Shriners Hospital, https://lovetotherescue.org