Samuel Caldera Tovar

Samuel was born at home on April 28, 1933 in Thornton, TX., to Emiliano Tovar Sr., and Maria Caldera Tovar. Samuel and Hortencia Contreras were united in marriage on August 2, 1953.

Samuel is preceded in death by his parents, Emiliano and Maria Tovar, as well as siblings, Paul Tovar, Margaret Tovar, Abel Tovar, Alex Tovar, Elias Tovar, Lupe Tovar, Jesse Tovar, Amador Caldera and Trini Caldera.

Samuel is survived by his spouse of sixty-nine years, Hortencia Tovar, son Edward Tovar and wife, Darla, daughter Sandra Contreras and husband, Porfirio, daughter Mary Celia Calvillo, son Samuel Tovar Jr., and wife, Jackie, son Tommy Tovar and wife, Sandra. Also surviving are Samuel’s siblings, brother, Emiliano Tovar Jr., (Mirta) and sister, Juanita Rico (Franco) as well as nineteen grandchildren, forty-six great grandchildren and eight great-great grandchildren. Samuel is also survived by numerous other family members as well as a host of friends, near and far.

Samuel (a.k.a. “Sam”), owned and operated ‘Pronto Lawn Service’ over thirty years. He was well respected in the community as being upstanding and honest; he was also known for having that “special touch” when it came to landscaping. Through his business, doors of employment opportunity were opened for multiple family and friends. He was always willing to give someone a chance to get back on their feet. The family would like to thank all those who, by their hard and consistent labor, contributed to the success of the business.

Samuel was known by many as, “Bro. Sam” as he was a revered and esteemed minister of the gospel. For many years he covered the miles in Texas, traveling to different churches and venues, singing, and preaching. Along the way, he became known for his heart for people and words of wisdom. He wasn’t as interested in standing behind a pulpit as he was in investing in the lives of people, one on one. He mentored many who are ministers themselves today. When he could no longer travel the miles, many of those he mentored would drive to Dallas to visit and seek his advice.

Our Dad and Grandpa...his love for family knew no bounds. How many of us...kids, grandkids, in-laws, and outlaws included, have gone to him for advice or sought out his opinion? One always felt better after talking to Dad, whether or not the situation was resolved. Nothing brought him more joy than when he was sitting at the table, surrounded by family.

Oftentimes he would sit in the recliner, close to the table, and listen intently as everyone talked and laughed. Many times, tears would come to his eyes as he watched his family...he was so thankful to God they were all together, enjoying one another. His legacy of love, family, faithfulness, and integrity will be guarded and passed down to the generations to come.

In the last few months, many times someone would go into Dad’s room to check on him and find him praying. Oh, how he loved the Lord! This writer loved to hear him pray in Spanish; there was not a dry eye in the room when Dad talked to the Lord. Now they talk face to face; how I’d love to eavesdrop on their conversations.

Samuel Caldera Tovar Sr., went home on June 6, 2023. We were not ready...but he was.

A visitation for Samuel will be held Tuesday, June 13, 2023 from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Calvary Hill Funeral Home, 3235 Lombardy Ln, Dallas, Texas 75220. A funeral service will follow Tuesday, June 13, 2023 beginning at 6:00 PM. A visitation will be held Wednesday, June 14, 2023 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, with a committal service immediately following at 11:00 AM at Calvary Hill Cemetery, 3235 Lombardy Ln, Dallas, Texas 75220.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.calvaryhilldallas.com for the Tovar family.