September 22, 1935 – August 30, 2019
Like so many of us, Robert came from poor, humble beginnings, raised in “La Loma”, Cement City, Texas. Later the family settled in West Dallas, in the home built by his father, himself, his brothers and close friends. He attended Thomas A. Edison, then went to Crozier Technical High School, where he met Josephine Lopez, the “Sunshine of his Life”. They were married 59 years, until her passing in 2015. Daughters Josephine and Anna Lisa, son Robert Anthony and parents, Guadalupe & Pedro Maldonado, preceded him in death. He has one surviving son, John Michael and wife, Annette. Grandchildren are Joseph A., Desiree & husband Fermin Hernandez, Monique & husband James Shellhaus. Great grandchildren are Alyssa, Jasmine, Sara, Joshua.
Robert’s life changed upon the death of his father in 1955. He and his brother Joaquin became serious and responsible young men, helping their mother raise 9 other children. The Maldonados are a large family, consisting of four generations. Roberts siblings are: Melinda & Troy Marceleno, Joaquin & Juanita Maldonado, Rogelio & Irma Maldonado, Israel & Margaret Maldonado, Alfonso & Irene (deceased) Maldonado, Leonor & Lane Stafford, Luis & Camille Maldonado, Paul & Ann Maldonado, Estella & Robert Chovanec, Lydia & Paul (deceased) Esquivel. Robert’s surviving uncles and aunts are: Uncle Henry & Gloria Munoz, Aunt Josephine DeLira, Aunt Gloria Esqueda, Aunt Sandra Munoz, and several generations of nieces, nephews and cousins.
Robert began his lifelong career in 1956 with Gruen Manufacturing in Dallas, TX. He was hired as a custodian and worked his way up to Plant Foreman. He managed manufacturing operations until his retirement in February 27, 2004. Robert appreciated his years of work, friendships and loyal support from everyone at Gruen. Prior to his retirement, he became an entrepreneur when he formed Maldonado Enterprises. He designed and manufactured the Maldonado 3750 Light Table. According to reviews by customers who required the most precise of measurements and accuracy, they were simply the best light tables made.
Robert was the epitome of a FAMILY MAN. Family was at the heart of what he was and the legacy he passed on to his siblings and sons. He wasn’t just a brother or brother-in-law, he was the father/father-in-law you no longer had. He was silent but always there for you, he was someone to look up to and be revered, not just for what he said, but by how he lived.
Robert enjoyed life to the fullest. Along with traveling, photography, and reading, he was a huge Frank Sinatra fan. He was a kind, thoughtful, generous person, and on top of all that, he was also a perfectionist. He gave so much of himself to all of his family, immediate and extended.
A special “thank you” from the Maldonado family to Autumn Leaves of Carrollton and Amity Hospice, for the care and love expressed to Robert.
We all have our special memories of Robert, and we will cherish and remember him fondly.
Maldonado Family
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