Robert Morales Mabasa

Robert Morales Mabasa, a distinguished Vietnam veteran of the United States Marine Corps, was welcomed into the heavenly Kingdom by his brothers in arms guarding the gates on January 20, 2025. Robert was the son of Joseph Cordero Mabasa and Rosie Morales. He grew up in Magnolia Park, Houston, Texas, as one of ten siblings; which included seven brothers and three sisters. Robert was born on December 21,1947.

At the age of 18, Robert Mabasa enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, a commitment he held in high regard, ultimately achieving the rank of Corporal. On December 21, 1958, Private Robert Mabasa arrived in Vietnam, where he served as an infantryman and later as a military policeman. Throughout his service, he received several military honors, such as the Rifle Marksman Badge, the Vietnamese Campaign Medal wt Device, The National Defense Service Medal, The Presidential Unit Citation, The Vietnamese Service Medal wt 1, The Combat Action Badge, and the Good Conduct Medal. He also received multiple acknowledgements and four day weekends due to the pristine condition in which he kept his uniform. CPL Robert Mabasa exemplified the values embodied in Semper Fidelis, the Marine Corps motto meaning "Always Faithful."

Robert was married to Norma Jean Reyna, and together they had three daughters: Stephanie Mabasa (Daniel Ceron), Tiffany Short (Victor Short), and Brittany Mabasa (Michael Trice). He cherished his eight grandchildren: Daisha, Millie, Jackson, Xander, Amarah, Evan, Adalyn, and Grayson. Robert took immense pride in the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren. Following a 35-year career with the United States Postal Service (USPS), Robert retired to pursue his passions. He delighted in the simple pleasures of life, including fishing with his children, hunting with his nephew Joey, and embarking on road trips. He was an avid collector and tinkerer, Robert loved understanding how things worked and was often found fixing items or working on his vehicles. He loved a good Lotto ticket.

Robert was a devoted father, grandfather, and uncle, demonstrating his love through selfless acts of service and unwavering support for his family and his country.

Robert is survived by his remaining siblings, Jesse, Lucinda, Johnny, Anthony, and Paul Phillip.

He was preceded by his parents, Susie (sister), Dorothy (sister), Arthur (brother), and Joseph (Brother).

A memorial service celebrating the life of Corporal Robert Mabasa will be held on Friday, January 31, 2025 from 9:30 AM to 10:00 AM at Brookside Funeral Home, 13747 Eastex Freeway, Houston, TX 77039.

“Marines don’t die, they are simply transferred to guard duty at the Pearly gates”.

Semper Fidelis!