Elmer Joffed Bermea

Elmer was born on March 13, 1948, in Ciudad Victoria, Tamaulipas, Mexico, to Reynaldo R. Bermea and Josefa Silva Bermea. He was the eldest of three children and, from an early age, demonstrated the qualities that would define his life: leadership, discipline, intelligence, and a deep sense of responsibility toward others. As the oldest sibling, he naturally assumed the role of guide and role model, setting a standard his brother and sister admired and followed.

A dedicated and gifted student, Elmer excelled academically and graduated as Salutatorian of his class from Schertz-Cibolo High School in 1966. Immediately following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army, where he reached the rank of SP6 (T). He served honorably from July 1966 to June 1969 as a professional stenographer (Specialty 71C30), completing two tours of duty in Vietnam. During his military service, he worked in the offices of Commanding Generals, including General William Westmoreland, reflecting his precision, trustworthiness, and professionalism.

After his military service, Elmer continued his education at the University of Texas at Austin. He went on to build a distinguished career as a stenographer, working for the Southern Pacific Railroad, Union Pacific Railroad, and later with the U.S. Civil Service in the Office of Special Investigations - Civilian at Randolph Air Force Base.

Raised in the Baptist faith, Elmer attended First Baptist Church in San Antonio, where his mother later taught Sunday School, and he remained connected to his faith throughout his life.

Elmer was known for his warmth, kindness, and unwavering honesty. He had a natural ability to connect with people and genuinely enjoyed conversation and companionship. A passionate lover of music, particularly rock, he amassed an extensive collection of LPs, cassette tapes, and CDs, and delighted in sharing his music with others. He was also a loyal fan of the Dallas Cowboys and the University of Texas Longhorns.

His curiosity and imagination found expression in his love of science fiction novels and science fiction and action films. He took great pleasure in good food, especially Mexican cuisine, and enjoyed traveling widely, with memorable journeys throughout Mexico, Spain, and Argentina.

A devoted supporter of lifelong learning and community service, Elmer volunteered for many years at the Converse and Universal City libraries and took pleasure in visiting libraries throughout the San Antonio Public Library system. He also brought joy to many through his volunteer work calling Bingo at the Universal City Library, Meridian Nursing Home, and the Northeast Senior Center in San Antonio.

Elmer was preceded in death by his grandfather, Dolores “Lolo” Bermea; his father, Reynaldo R. Bermea; and his mother, Josefa S. Bermea.

He is survived by his brother, Eiffel Y. Bermea; his sister, Yadira A. Bermea-Monico; and his beloved niece, Laura Bermea Monico.

Memorial donations in Elmer’s name may be made to the San Antonio Public Library Foundation by visiting https://www.saplf.org.

Elmer will be remembered for his integrity, service, intellect, generosity of spirit, and the quiet leadership he carried throughout his life.