Andrew Solis Mendoza

Andrew Solis Mendoza, of San Antonio, Texas, went peacefully to be with the Lord on December 29, 2025. He was born on July 1, 1951, in San Antonio, Texas, to Armando and Ramona Mendoza. He was a loving husband and best friend to Christine, and father to Elizabeth and Michael.

A Navy veteran, Andrew’s time in service proved to be a pivotal chapter in his life. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with one Bronze Star, Combat Action Ribbon, and the Good Conduct Medal. While attending the Navy Academy, he earned his high school diploma and attended chef school—launching a career in the baking industry that would span more than 50 years, until his retirement in 2020.

Over many decades, Andrew influenced and inspired countless people in the baking industry through his leadership at places like HEB, Brill, International Bakery Concepts, and many others. But to most, he was known not by his titles or accolades, but by the meals he lovingly prepared. His passion for baking and cooking carried into his personal life, and you could always count on a good meal when he was around—whether in your home or his. If there was a kitchen or a barbecue pit nearby, that’s where you’d find him.

When Andrew wasn’t in the kitchen, you could find him on the golf course. An avid golfer, he taught himself how to play in his early twenties and never looked back. He often said he looked forward to retirement because it meant more mornings on the golf course, and in his final years, his Tuesday and Thursday rounds became a cherished rhythm.

Andrew is preceded in death by his parents, Armando G. Mendoza and Ramona Mendoza; his brothers, Antonio Solis (USA) and Armando Mendoza Jr.; his sister, Evangelina M. Gonzalez; and his step-daughter, Miranda Turner.

He is survived by his wife, Christine Mendoza; his children, Elizabeth Mendoza Setser (Preston) and Michael Andrew Mendoza; his step-daughters, Deanna Martinez (Albert) and Christie Morales; his grandson, Malachi Mendoza; his sister, Christina Maria Luna (Jesse); his brother, John Moreno (USA) (Terry); his two fur babies Precious and Lexi; and many friends and extended family members who will miss him deeply.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. at Porter Loring–McCullough, followed by a funeral service at 7:00 p.m. Andrew will be laid to rest with military honors on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery at 10:15 a.m.

We find comfort in knowing that Andrew now rests in the joy of God’s presence, and that his legacy lives on through the recipes he taught us, the love he shared, and the memories we will cherish forever.