Robert Flores

Robert was born and raised in Austin and like Austin he grew by leaps and bounds. He attended Austin public schools and earned an Associates Degree from Austin Community College.

In 1948 he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and was honorably discharged in 1951. While in Korea he was one of the many Marines who fought bravely at The Battle of Chosin Reservoir, also known as the Changjin Lake Campaign; a brutal 17-day battle in freezing weather.

Robert served his country willingly and faithfully. Serving in the Korean Conflict, Texas National Guard and later became the top recruiter in the state of Texas for the Texas National Guard. Awards he received for his service include a Korean Service Medal w/*** ; United Nations Service Medal; National Defense Medal; Army Commendation Medal, Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal; Medal/Army Service Ribbon/NCO Professional Development Ribbon; and an Oversees Service Ribbon.

Robert also was a hair stylist for many years in Austin, owning several beauty salons in the area. He and his wife Connie Flores worked together and had two salons, one on Duval, the other on the corner of 51st Street and IH 35 where Home Depot now stands. Later, his salon, Coiffures by Roberto was on Manor Road.

Robert was also a Master Mason Hill City and past worshipful master for Live Oak Masonic Lodge #304. A lover of arts Robert performed in several of Esther’s Follies and musicals, including Fiddler on Roof, Finian’s Rainbow and was extra in the release of the 1972 movie Piranha. He enjoyed dancing and was forever singing whether you wanted to hear him or not. He also loved baseball and he played in the minor leagues here in Austin.

His siblings Vincent, Julian and Elida Flores preceded him in death. Robert is survived by his younger sister Annie Flores Fuentes (Dallas); his son Ted Flores, daughter Monica Flores-Rojo (Victor) both from Austin. His grandchildren, Thad Figueroa, Kelly Figueroa Kelso, Thane and Tanner Flores and great grandchildren, Noah Beard, Jude and Jax Figueroa.

Acting as honorary pallbearers will be his grandsons and great grandsons.

Funeral service will be held at 10:00 am, on Monday, February 26, 2018 at Cook Walden Funeral Home, 6100 North Lamar Blvd, Austin, Texas 78752. The interment will be held at Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen, Texas at 2:00 pm.