He attended Carroll High School.
Robert found joy in the simple, steady pleasures of life—following the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Astros, spending time golfing, and sharing laughter whenever he could. Those who knew him will remember his easy smile, his love of joking, and the special tradition of golf trips with his father—times marked by closeness, conversation, and the kind of memories that remain long after the day is done.
Robert was preceded in death by his grandparents, Oscar J. Zapata, Ronald Black, and Audrey Black; and by his uncles, Eduardo Zapata and Ronald Black Jr.
He is survived by his parents, Roberto “Bobby” Zapata and Phyllis Zapata; his children, Juan Manuel Zapata, Robert Zapata Jr., and Arriana Garza; grandmother, Melba Zapata Pawlik, his sister, Shelby Zapata; his uncle, Oscar (Velma) Zapata; his aunt, Velma G. (Orlando) Gracia; and numerous cousins.
Special thanks are extended to David Munguia, his best friend; Quinton Zapata, his cousin; and Bay Area Hospital.
Memorial Service will be on Friday, October 9, 2026 at 1:00 PM at Funeraria Del Angel Everhart, located at 4901 Everhart Rd., Corpus Christi, Texas 78411.
