Adalberto "Beto" G. Flores

Adalberto G. Flores, affectionately known as “Beto,” passed away after a courageous fight with cancer in San Antonio, Texas, leaving behind a legacy of love, hard work, and pride in his family and heritage. He was 84 years old.

Born at home on the 4th of July, 1940, in Mercedes, Texas, Beto carried his patriotic birthdate with pride throughout his life. A proud native Texan from “El Valle,” he was the second oldest of ten siblings and treasured his deep roots and close-knit family.

Beto’s early years were shaped by his work alongside his family as a migrant laborer, traveling across the country and working in various states including Michigan, Ohio, California, Texas, and Arizona. He later went on to proudly serve in the United States Air Force for two years, with basic training in San Antonio and a special communications assignment in Greenland.

After his service, he moved to Pontiac, Michigan and held the position of General Foreman at Mayfair Plastics Factory in Michigan. He later began a long and respected career in the Materials Department at General Motors, working in Pontiac, Michigan, and Shreveport, Louisiana. After working 20+ years, he retired from GM and moved to San Antonio.

A lifelong learner, Beto graduated from Mercedes High School and attended some college at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. His passion for self-improvement extended to physical fitness as well. He was an avid runner who completed numerous 5K and 10K races, including the Detroit Free Press Marathon twice.

Beto was a man of many talents and passions. He was a loyal Dallas Cowboys fan, a green thumb who won “Yard of the Month” twice, and a talented guitarist who once substituted on stage alongside Freddy Fender. He loved Tejano music, dancing, and sharing stories of his youth. In fact, he met the love of his life, Maria S. Flores, at a local dance hall in Pontiac, Michigan. They were married for 59 years and built a life centered around family, laughter, and music.

He found joy in daily walks, going to the gym, and hosting BBQs for his family and friends. He also had a keen interest in managing his investments and stayed sharp well into his later years. Beto was known for his storytelling, especially tales from his childhood, which always brought smiles and laughter to those around him.

Beto was a dedicated member of several organizations including the Knights of Columbus—where he volunteered at bingo games, BBQ fundraisers, and Habitat for Humanity projects—as well as the Our Lady of Guadalupe Society, St. Mark Evangelist Catholic Church, and the United Auto Workers (UAW).

He is survived by his beloved wife, Maria S. Flores; his children, Gloria Hamilton (Dwayne) of San Antonio, and David Flores (Sophie) of Blue Springs, Missouri; grandchildren, Katherine and Abigail Hamilton of San Antonio, and Jacob and Elijah Flores of Independence, Missouri.

Beto also leaves behind his siblings: Maria Hortencia Cantu (Joe) of Corpus Christi, Maria Magdelena Flores, Juan Javier Flores, Fernando Flores (Jean), Jacob Flores Jr. (Maria), Gerado Flores, and Gilberto Flores (Nora), all of Mercedes, Texas. He is also cherished by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Jacobo and Josefa Garcia Flores, and his brothers, Louis Flores and Baldemar Flores.

Adalberto “Beto” Flores will be remembered for his enduring love of life, family, and his Mexican American heritage. His laughter, strength, and generous spirit will live on in the hearts of all who had the honor of knowing him.

A visitation for Adalberto will be held Wednesday, June 11, 2025 at 10:30 AM at St Mark The Evangelist Catholic Church, 1602 Thousand Oaks Dr, San Antonio, TX 78232. A rosary will occur at 11:00 AM, with a funeral mass at 11:30 AM. A reception will follow the mass in the Shalom Room at St Mark The Evangelist.

A committal service with military honors will be held Monday, June 16, 2025 at 9:45 AM at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, Shelter #5, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd, San Antonio, Texas 78209. Please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes prior to the start of service as military honors will start promptly at 9:45 AM.