Salvador Sotovelez, 81, of Howell Township passed away on January 13, 2026, at CentraState Medical Center, Freehold Township. He was born in San Juan Puerto Rico and had lived throughout New Jersey before settling in Howell at the age of 16 to the Freewood Acres neighborhood, it was there he met his wife, Katherine as teenagers. Salvador served in the United States Army during Vietnam, where he honed his skills as a mechanic and learned valuable life lessons. He worked as a dye taper at Molecule wire for 40 years. Salvador was a kind and compassionate friend to all who knew him. He had a natural ability to listen and offer wise advice, making him a beloved confidant to many. He never met a person he didn't like and had a knack for making everyone feel welcome and valued. Salvador's true joy in life came from spending time with his family, especially his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who affectionately called him Pop. He was a pillar of strength and support.

He is predeceased by his wife, Katherine Sotovelez; granddaughter, Ashely Rose and brother, Jose Velez. Salvador is survived by his three children, Marie Sotovelez of Howell, Salvador Sotovelez, Jr and his wife Maria Vilchez Leiva of South Carolina and Katrina Czarnecki and her husband, Edward of Howell; grandchildren, Katherine, Zachery, Edward, Jr, Dominic, Kayla, Angie, Estella and Pamela great grandchildren, Sophia, Harper, Nicholas and Bella; nieces, Lisa Velez, Maryann Velez and Joanne Velez.

All arrangements are private. For information, directions or to leave condolence messages to the family, visit www.claytonfuneralhome.com .