Valentin R. Mendez

Valentin R. Mendez, age 79, of Corpus Christi, Texas, passed away on Saturday, November 23, 2024. He was a lifelong resident of Corpus Christi, and was born on July 3, 1945, to parents George F. Mendez and Julia R. Mendez.

Valentin graduated from Roy Miller High School in 1963. He went on to marry the love of his life, Graciela S. Mendez on April 24, 1965, in Corpus Christi. Throughout his life, Valentin was known to be a hard worker. In 1998, after 32 years of service, Valentin retired from the Corpus Christi Army Depot as a turbine engine evaluator/quality control inspector. After his formal retirement, he worked for multiple dealerships transporting vehicles. He enjoyed being on the road and exploring new destinations with Graciela, his wife of over 59 years.

Valentin's most important passion was spending time with his family. His five grandchildren and great-granddaughter brought him tremendous joy. In his free time, he enjoyed watching his favorite sports' teams, including the Dallas Cowboys. He was an avid runner that competed in countless races including half-marathons, marathons, and an ultra-marathon.

Valentin is reunited with his parents, George and Julia Mendez, and brothers, George Mendez, Ernesto Mendez, Alvino Mendez, and Fernando Mendez.

Valentin leaves his legacy to his beloved wife of 59 years, Graciela Soliz Mendez; their children, Daniel Orlando (Eva) Mendez, Gracie Anne Mendez, and Arnold Anthony (Jodi) Mendez; grandchildren, Christina Mendez, Daniel Mendez Jr., Anthony Mendez, Victoria Mendez, and Michael Mendez; great-granddaughter, Harley Mendez; siblings, Antonio Mendez, Daniel Mendez, and Maria Santa Gonzales; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends.

Visitation will be held from 5 PM until 9 PM on Monday, December 2, 2024, at Memory Gardens Funeral Home, where a Holy Rosary will be recited that same evening at 7 PM. A Funeral Celebration will begin at 10 AM on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at Memory Gardens Funeral Home. Rite of Committal and Entombment will follow at Memory Gardens Mausoleum.