Federico Raul Saenz

Sergeant Major (Retired) Federico Raul Saenz, age 80, of San Antonio, Texas, passed away peacefully on October 9, 2025, surrounded by his loving wife and daughters. He was a man of great integrity, faith, and devotion — to his country, his family, and the soldiers he led.

Born on December 24, 1944, in Corpus Christi, Texas. Federico grew up with a deep sense of duty and love for his country. After graduating from Roy Miller High School, he enlisted in the United States Army at the age of 18, beginning a remarkable 30-year career of dedication and service, which culminated in his rise to the esteemed rank of Sergeant Major. Throughout his distinguished career, he served with courage, leadership, and humility, earning the respect of all who had the honor to serve beside him.

During the Vietnam War, Federico served from January 1968 to January 1969 with HHC 2nd BN 3rd Infantry, 199th Light Infantry Brigade, and later with Advisory Team 26, Military Assistance Command Vietnam. His bravery and dedication on the battlefield earned him numerous honors, including the Purple Heart and his highly treasured Combat Medical Badge, of which he was especially proud. His service in Vietnam reflected the very core of his character – courage, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to protecting others.

His military decorations reflect a lifetime of bravery and excellence: the Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal (3rd Oak Leaf Cluster), Army Commendation Medal (1st Oak Leaf Cluster), Army Achievement Medal (1st Oak Leaf Cluster), Vietnam Campaign Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal (9th Award), Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation with Palm, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon (3), NCO Professional Development Ribbon (4), Overseas Service Bar (2), Combat Medical Badge, and the National Defense Service Medal with Service Star.

After retiring from active duty, Federico continued a life of service and learning. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Our Lady of the Lake University in 1997, reflecting his deep belief in the power of education and self-improvement. He was a Life Member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2059, Life Member of the Military Order of the Cootie, a proud and active member of the American Legion Post 0667, and a Life Member of the Military Order of the Purple Heart.

Beyond his many accomplishments, Federico found his greatest happiness in life’s simple pleasures. He loved fishing, hunting, singing his favorite karaoke songs, barbecuing for his family, and traveling to new places. His laughter and music filled every gathering, and his backyard barbecues were a favorite tradition that brought family and friends together.

Those who knew Federico will remember his wisdom, strength, and unwavering loyalty. He lived his Christian life by the values of honor, respect, and compassion, always guiding others to strive for excellence and care for one another.

Federico is survived by his devoted wife, Kathleen Saenz, and his children, Sandra Teitelbaum, Julie (Oscar) Montes, Christina (Brian) Bacic, Scott (Sarah) Wagoner, and Brent Wagoner. His siblings: Mary, Ophelia, Oralia, Richard, Lydia, and Cynthia. He was a proud grandfather to thirteen grandchildren: Sarah, Taylor, and Aaron Teitelbaum, Devon, Aleah, and Dominick Montes; Mason Bacic, Owen, Aubrey, Brynn, Landree, Lillian, and Lexi Wagoner, and he took immense pride in each of their accomplishments and the people they have become.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Federico and Rebecca Saenz; his twin brother Alfredo Saenz; and his brothers Octavio and Oscar Saenz.

Service visitation will be held on November 5, 2025, 5:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. Religious ceremony November 6, 2025, 9 a.m. - 10 a.m., both at Sunset Funeral Home 1701 Austin Highway, San Antonio, Texas 78218. Full Military Honors Caisson, November 6, 11 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery Assembly Area 1520 Harry Wurzbach Road, San Antonio, Texas 78209. A celebration of life will be held at Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2059 at 12:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his memory to Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2059, where Federico was the Post Commander 2010, 2011, and 2014.

“Well done, thou good and faithful servant… Enter thou into the joy of the Lord- ”Matthew 25:21