GRUESO SALAS, CHRISTIAN - It is with deep sadness that we announce the sudden passing of a beloved son, brother, uncle and friend. Christian Mauricio Grueso Salas, 24, of Fredericton, NB passed away suddenly on February 16, 2014. He was born in El Charco, Narino, Colombia on August 5, 1989 to Edith Salas and the late Eleuterio Grueso. After fleeing violence in Colombia, his family sought refuge in Ecuador and made application to come to Canada. He arrived in Fredericton, NB, Canada, in September 2006 with his mother, sister and niece. Christian graduated from Fredericton High School and attended post-secondary studies in the IT field. He had worked several jobs while studying, including not-for-profits: Computers For Schools and the Multicultural Association of Fredericton. He was studying Computer Science at UNB. He was an active member of the Latino Community and of the Multicultural Association of Fredericton. Christian had many friends and, despite the challenges he had faced, was always cheerful and positive. He worked very hard to rise above adversity and make a better life for himself and his family. He always had a smile on his face and was known for his politeness, sense of humour and gentle demeanour. Christian was very bright and talented in the field of computers, mathematics and the sciences. In his free time he loved to play soccer and basketball with his closest friends, dance salsa and play guitar. He was generous of his time and his skills, and always willing to help others. Christian was loved by all who knew him and his loss will leave a hole in many hearts and in our community. Christian is survived by his mother, Edith Salas, his sister Lorena Grueso, his brother in law Luis Lopez, niece Cielo Lopez and nephew Luis Lopez, all of Fredericton, NB. He is also survived by a sister, Marlen Ines, of Colombia. Christian was predeceased by his father, Eleuterio Grueso.
Visitation is being held on Wednesday, February 19th 2014 at McAdam’s Funeral Home on York St. from 1:00 to 3:00 pm and 6:00 to 8:00 pm. There will be a funeral service on Thursday, February 20th at 11:00 am at the Brunswick St. Baptist Church. Rev. Dr. Terry Atkinson will officiate. Donations for the Grueso family can be made at any Fredericton branch of the RBC Royal Bank, at the Multicultural Association of Fredericton, 28 Saunders Street or at McAdam’s Funeral Home. Online condolences can be made at www.mcadamsfh.com