Oscar Galvan, Sr.

Oscar was proud of his Canary Islander roots. One of his Galvan relatives was among the Spanish settlers who contributed to the building of the San Fernando Cathedral in 1731, in what later became San Antonio. He also took great pride in having served in World War II. When in a good mood he would sing “Lily Marleine” in German and regale listeners with stories about guarding prisoners during the war.

He loved having an audience to entertain. And, was such an incorrigible jokester that it was hard to distinguish between his true stories and “tall tales” told for effect. His account of seeing a “white gorilla” climbing up a neighborhood wall was legendary. And, earned him a spanking from his no nonsense Mom! He would still swear that it was absolutely true! He and his brother Martin were particularly fun to listen to when together. It was a rare pleasure to listen to them try to one up each other’s jokes and stories. Those jokes and tall tales would turn the air “blue” as the night wore on, but they were hysterical!

Oscar had a very successful career as a traveling salesman. He won countless awards from each of the companies he worked for. Competitor companies would always just give up and make him a better offer rather than compete against him. He was most successful selling machinery and automotive supplies to large companies. He loved his work because it meant meeting people.

Oscar never met a stranger. To know him, was to love him. He had a great sense of humor and was always smiling. He loved the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Longhorns. He loved the fellowship at his church. Most of all however, Oscar was devoted to his wife and family.

He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Mary (Weaver) Galvan and children: Diana (Fred) Garcia, Tony (Susan) Galvan and Rick Galvan; grandchildren, Freddie (Holly) Garcia, Camille (Paul) Jury, Jennifer Galvan, Mandi (Juan) Soto, Micheal (Leslie) Galvan, Bradley Galvan, Joey Galvan; great grandchildren: Emma Garcia, Katelyn Jury, Jaden Soto, Cy Soto, Serena Pena, Siera Pena, Hailey Galvan, and Hunter Galvan. His sisters, Delia Galvan and Yolanda Gonzalez, also survive him.

Oscar’s beloved elder brother, Martin Galvan, preceded him in death along with his much-loved sister-in-law, Victorine Galvan. His son, Oscar Galvan, Jr., also preceded Oscar in death only four months ago. And, Oscar joined his son on what would have been Oscar, Jr.’s 61st birthday. There must have been great joy in heaven that day!

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to his medical home care team at the Central Texas Veteran’s Administration Clinic: Vicki Greene, NP; Pete Morrison, RN, Rachel Horne, MSW, and Mike, PT. Their exemplary care allowed him to remain at home during his prolonged illness. The Galvan family would also like to thank Oscar’s caregiver, Maribel. And, we are especially grateful to Oscar’s caregiver, Glory Valdez, for her gentle kindness and the happiness she brought to our home by her steadfast presence in Oscar’s last months.

A celebration of Oscar’s life and memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, January 20, 2014 at Cook- Walden/Forest Oaks Funeral Home located at 6300 W. William Cannon Drive in Austin.