Arturo M. Bazan, lovingly known as “Tudy,” was called home to the Lord on January 30, 2026. Tudy, 71, entered perpetual rest, surrounded by the tender love and embrace of his family and lifted by their prayers, at his cherished home in Corpus Christi, TX. Though our hearts overflow with the ache of his absence, we take comfort in faith, knowing that he is now reunited with his beloved wife Linda, who welcomed him home with open arms, two souls to rest eternally in God’s perfect peace. Arturo entered this world on May 23, 1954, in Corpus Christi, TX.
A lifelong Catholic, he was deeply devoted to his faith. He began serving the Church at a young age, in 1960, as an altar server at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, and he remained dedicated to that service through his graduation from Roy Miller High School in 1973. Tudy was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, reflecting his lifelong devotion to faith, service, and brotherhood. He became a Knight and received his First Degree in 1985. In 1996, he advanced to the Fourth Degree as a Sir Knight, the highest level of commitment within the Order. He later served as Honor Guard Commander for the Billy Quintanilla VSM, Assembly 2852, within the Diocese of Corpus Christi. He was a devout Catholic and a parishioner of Most Precious Blood for almost 40 years.
He truly built a life rooted in hard work, devotion, and a deep love for his family. He began his career with Tennessee Pipeline in 1974 before finding his long-term calling in refinery work in 1977. After 42 remarkable years of steady, dedicated service, he retired with profound honor from the Valero Bill Greehey Refinery in 2020, leaving behind a legacy that speaks of dedication, integrity, and a man who understood the dignity of labor.
After reuniting with the love of his life, Linda Crittenden, it was clear that God had brought two hearts together that were always meant to be one. On August 19, 1978, in Corpus Christi, Texas, they were united in marriage, beginning a lifetime of devotion and faith and setting an example of enduring love that inspired those around them. Together they shared a strong faith and a generous spirit, becoming godparents to several children they dearly loved. While continuing his refinery career, with his wife and daughters by his side, they opened, owned, and operated La’Tash Jewelers, a name born of love itself, a combination of their daughters’ names. The business flourished for many years, and Tudy eventually learned the art of repairing and creating jewelry from gold and silver.
Tudy’s heart came alive at his ranch, where he loved gathering with family and friends to create memories. He was known for working hard both on the job and at home. He took pride in caring for his yard, plants, and trees. He truly had a green thumb and could make anything grow and thrive. When his grandchildren arrived, his hardworking, calloused hands became gentle and tender. He adored his grandchildren and did everything for them. Always showing up with love, time, and a willing heart. Above all, Tudy was a family man, one who provided, protected, and loved deeply. He cherished being a father and a Popo to his daughters and grandchildren, and his heart was big enough to embrace many “adopted” kids and grandkids, friends of his daughters and grandchildren whom he loved as his own. His stories, life lessons, and steady guidance will live on through his daughters, son-in-law, grandchildren, and godchildren.
Tudy’s love, guidance, and legacy will continue and live on through the family he leaves behind: his devoted daughters, Latalie Schooley (Billy), Ashley Bazan (Andrew Figueroa), and Stacey Perez Alvarado, whom he raised as a daughter and loved with a father’s complete heart; his brothers, Benny Lopez and Ventura Lopez, Jr. (Petra); and his treasured grandchildren, Lexi Lee, Peyton June, and Lillyanne Faye Schooley, Jaedon Ray, Riley Andrew, and Grayson “Guero” Alexander. He also leaves behind numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and godchildren, each holding a place in his heart that is irreplaceable. Special gratitude flows to his dear friend, Alicia Cavada, whose kindness and devoted care brought comfort during his time of need. Our family is deeply grateful and will forever hold her support close to our hearts.
Arturo is now joyfully reunited in Heaven with his beloved wife, Linda Lee Crittenden Bazan; his precious infant daughter, LouAnn Bazan; his loving parents, Guadalupe Bazan and Ciria Martinez Bazan; his brother, Guadalupe Bazan, Jr.; and his sister, Margarita (Ventura) Lopez.
With love and deep respect, those honored to serve as pallbearers will be his fellow Knight and dear friend, Johnny Solis; his beloved brothers, Benny Lopez Sr. and Ventura Lopez Jr.; his devoted son-in-law, Billy Schooley Jr.; his loyal nephew and godson, Roy Vela Jr.; his treasured grandson and godson, Jaedon Dominguez; and his dear friend Andrew Ita. Walking in honor behind them as honorary pallbearers will be his grandsons, Riley and Grayson.
The family of Arturo “Tudy” Bazan gratefully acknowledges the outpouring of love and support shown during this time. Your visits, messages, and quiet acts of kindness have meant more than words can express. Thank you for remembering us in your prayers and for surrounding our family with comfort, faith, and encouragement. Your compassion has been a true blessing.
