Gilberto Padron Cantu

Gilberto Padron Cantu (Beto), born on May 17, 1934, in Tivoli, Texas, to Blas G. Cantu and Lorenza Padron Cantu, peacefully gained his angel wings in Corpus Christi, Texas, on January 29, 2025, at the age of 90.

Gilberto was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 66 years, Maria Orozco Cantu; as well as his parents, Blas and Lorenza Cantu; sisters, Guadalupe C. Montoya, Jesusa C. Martinez, Juanita C. Garcia, Julia C. Garcia, Frances C. Saenz, and Maria C. Juarez; and brothers, Jose P. Cantu, Anastacio (Tacho) Cantu, and Blas P. Cantu

Gilberto (Beto) is survived by his children, Maria Elena (Jimmy) Guerra, Sylvia (Tom) Kinberger, and Gilbert (Irma) Cantu Jr.; sisters-in-law, Gloria Cantu and Ursula Lopez; grandchildren, Leann (Jose) Garza, Jacob Jasso, Jennifer (Steven) Gomez, Jenna Jasso (Robert Leal), Jessica Jasso, Gilbert Anthony (Destiny) Cantu, Bianca Cantu (Robert) Palacios, Jenifer Guerra, Jimmy IV (Kristin) Guerra, Cameron Kinberger, and Zachary Kinberger; and 20 great-grandchildren with one more on the way.

Gilberto was lovingly called “Welo” by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, family, and friends. A man of strong work ethic, Gilbert dedicated 10 years to Poelma Flooring Company before becoming self-employed, working tirelessly for over 40 years. He took great pride in his craft and found fulfillment in providing for his family. He was also a devoted member of Our Lady of Pilar Church, where his faith remained an important part of his life.

Gilberto was always present for those he loved. He found joy in picking up his children and grandchildren from school and mowing his family’s yards. He took great pride in the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren, celebrating their successes with love and unwavering support. He had a deep appreciation for music and dance, especially Tejano music, and was a fan of the legendary comedian Cantinflas. He cherished listening to Vicente Fernández, watching old western movies, and reminiscing about his days working in the fields picking cotton with his family.

Gilberto found joy in the simple pleasures of life—riding his mini bike, driving his beloved truck, and sharing stories of meaningful moments with his brothers and sisters. One of his greatest joys was gifting money to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, always eager to hear about their school, work, and sports endeavors. His love, generosity, and unwavering support will forever be treasured by those who were blessed to know him.

Gilberto’s legacy of love, strength, and dedication to his loved ones will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. The countless memories he created with those he loved will forever be cherished by his family, friends, and all who were blessed to know him.

Visitation will be held from 5 PM until 9 PM on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at Memory Gardens Funeral Home, where a Holy Rosary will be recited that same evening at 7 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10 AM on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at Our Lady of Pilar Catholic Church. Rite of Committal and Interment will follow at Memory Gardens Cemetery.