Thomas "Tom" Canché Alvarado-a beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, great friend, and mentor-passed away on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, leaving behind a legacy built on natural leadership, strong work ethic, craftsmanship, and a deep devotion to his family.
Born in Hidalgo County, Texas, on September 22, 1942, Tom spent his formative years growing up in Austin, developing a lifelong connection to the area and the people who made it home. He now joins those who preceded him in death: his devoted wife, Stella; his parents, Ysidro Alvarado and Juana Canché Alvarado; his sisters Eva, Maria, and Rachel; and his brothers Jesse and Armando.
Tom's reliable dedication defined his career, retiring after years of service with Texas Meat Purveyors. Retirement, however, was never going to slow him down. True to form, he immediately spent a year playing golf almost every day before deciding he simply couldn't sit still for five minutes. That active drive channeled itself into his passions: woodworking, home restoration, renovations, and bringing whatever he envisioned to life-making countless new friends along the way.
He took immense pride in his yard work, loving nothing more than keeping his lawn meticulous and beautiful. Above all else, Tom cherished the time he spent with his family. He loved getting together with his children, Daniel and Sara, whether they were enjoying monthly dinners at Matt's El Rancho, watching football together, or gathering while Tom worked his magic at the grill. He treasured those moments with his daughter and son, while also holding a deeply special place in his heart for his grandson, Thomas "Kannon" Alvarado.
He is lovingly remembered by his devoted children, Sara Alvarado Higginbotham and her husband Tom, and Daniel Alvarado and his former wife, Tori; his precious grandson, Thomas "Kannon" Alvarado; and his cherished bonus grandchildren, Kaden and Olive Pearl. He also leaves behind a wide circle of proud sisters, brothers, in-laws, loving nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends who will miss his warmth and spirit immensely.
The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude for the overwhelming support, encouragement, and comfort provided by friends and family during recent hospital stays, as well as the compassionate care delivered by Hospice Austin and the doctors and staff at St. David's South. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Hospice Austin https://www.hospiceaustin.org/get-involved/donate/donation-form/, or any other charity of the donors choice.
