Salvador Baragan Rojas

Charisma. It’s one of the most wonderful qualities a person could possibly have. Sal had charisma in spades.

Salvador Baragan Rojas was born July 16th, 1931 to Aurora and Salvador.

He lost his fight to pulmonary disease at the age of 88 on March 3, 2020.

Salvador’s first love lasted from childhood all through his final days in the hospital. That love was music.

He began playing saxophone and flute as a teenager. When he enlisted in the National Guard of Arizona he played in the Guard’s 108th Band.

Sal owned and operated salons in the Park Central Medical Building and Encanto Village Shopping Center, where he specialized as a “Roffer” stylist, the European Razor Cutting Method.

His customers ranged from off the street guys to politicians and prominent doctors. All got the full treatment: a smooth razor cut, TV, magazines from Playboy to Time, guy talk, a good laugh and a neck massage before they headed out the door. At night passer-bys might catch a glimpse of a rousing band rehearsal in full swing.

In the 1950’s he played Phoenix’ legendary hot spots: The Calderon and Riverside Ballrooms with The Chalio Dominguez Orchestra, The Chapito Chavarria Orchestra and the Pete Bugarin Orchestra. From the late 60’s through to his last performance at the age of 80, he played in various salsa bands like Poco Loco, Latin Explosion, Barrio ‘82 and Rhythm of the Sun.

His children Vique, Laura, Sal Salvador, Kimberly, Pamela, brother Tony, three grandchildren and six great grandchildren, survive Salvador. He loved his children and was their biggest cheerleader.

The family was planning a jam session memorial when pandemic restrictions prohibited the event. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hospice of the Valley.

We honor your 89th birthday, Dad. You had a love of life, sense of play and compassion for your fellow man that was an inspiration. Not a day goes by that you aren’t missed. Not. One. Day.