Soon Ja Lee Salmeron

Soon Ja Lee Salmeron, 80, of Roseville, California passed away unexpectedly on June 16, 2023, after suffering a heart attack at Sutter Hospital in Sacramento. Soon Ja was born in South Korea in 1942 and immigrated to the United States at a young age in 1964. After learning the English language and putting herself through school, Soon Ja was able to support herself and become an active part of the workforce. She worked a number of minor jobs until eventually beginning her career at Bank of America, where she remained until her retirement. During her years, she married twice and had 3 daughters: Judith, Linda, and Tanya. She strongly believed in being a very present mother from the moment her children were born. As life events unfolded for her, she eventually found herself as a single mother raising her children and working to provide for her children’s basic needs. She struggled to maintain the balance between her children and work – not so much out of obligation, but simply because she cared and loved her children deeply. Many years later, she would realize her dream of all 3 daughters graduating from college and having successful careers. Those close to Soon Ja will remember her as being a bundle of energy. Her entire life was a shining example of someone who was passionate about trying everything: nightclubbing at discos, concerts, eating great food, aerobics, Zumba, Pilates/Yoga, storytelling, and casinos! Although some people will remember her for her spitfire attitude when crossed, those who were close to her will mostly remember her for her strength, determination, and indomitable spirit. Her passion and empathy showed up in her family, volunteer work and willingness to help others. Whether she was helping a friend run errands, providing a ride to someone in need, or volunteering by helping receive yet another Korean orphan up for adoption in the Bay Area, she will be greatly admired and missed…but above all, she will be remembered for the boundless love she had towards her family. Soon Ja is survived by her daughters (Judith Domingo-Vicerra, Linda Callarman, and Tanya Zito), her sons-in-law (Christopher Callarman and Steven Zito), her grandchildren (Aaron Zito, William Zito, and Sophie Callarman), and her sister, Pong Tok.

Friends and family are invited to a memorial service on Saturday, August 5, 2023 at 10:45 a.m. St. Clare Catholic Church – 1950 Junction Blvd. Roseville, CA 95747 (916) 772-4717. Light reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in her name to The Korean Center, Inc. - 1362 Post St. San Francisco, CA 94109 (415) 441-1881 https://koreancentersf.org/donate/

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