With great sorrow, we announce the passing of Michael David Rubalcaba II, a devoted husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend (December 3, 1970, to May 5, 2025). Michael’s courageous battle with pancreatic cancer did not diminish his desire to create precious memories with his loved ones. Born to Mike and Linda Rubalcaba in Aransas Pass, TX, Michael dedicated his life to family, fraternity, and football. Michael grew up in Ingleside, TX, graduated from Ingleside High School, and pursued his passion for justice by earning a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from The Ohio State University.
Michael's greatest joy was his family; he shared 14 beautiful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Erica Nett Rubalcaba, and their daughters, Avery Grace and Tessa Faith. His love and guidance left a legacy of cherished memories of laughter, devotion, adventure, and unwavering support. An avid traveler, Michael explored more than 35 countries and 14 states with his family, always eager to experience new cultures and cuisines. He was always keen for new experiences, and his adventures included bungee jumping in Zimbabwe, canoeing in Botswana, gorilla trekking in Rwanda, snorkeling in St. Lucia, zip-lining in Costa Rica, swimming with dolphins in Curaçao, and participating in multiple African safaris.
Equally passionate about football, Michael remained a steadfast fan of the Dallas Cowboys and The Ohio State Buckeyes, surrounding himself with Cowboys memorabilia, Buckeyes football paraphernalia, and mementos of his favorite band, Pearl Jam.
For 24 years, he led with dedication and integrity, becoming a respected and beloved member of the Drug Enforcement Administration fraternity of Special Agents. He demonstrated a profound moral compass and a deep respect for the law, making a lasting impact in his field. Much love and gratitude go to those agents who remained at Michael’s side and cared for him during his last days. We are also grateful to the START Center for the excellent and compassionate care Michael received.
Michael was preceded in death by his grandparents, Leonard and Maria Rubalcaba, and Juan and Ginette Huerta; and his father-in-law, Dr. Bob Nett. He is survived by his wife, Erica, and their children, Avery Grace (12) and Tessa Faith (10); his parents, Mike and Linda Rubalcaba of Ingleside; his sister, Aimee, and brother-in-law, Ryan Reed, and their children, Benjamin (17) and Mila (14), of Cedar Park; and his mother-in-law, Patti Nett, and brother-in-law, Nick Nett, both of San Antonio.
Michael was a man who was all in when it came to family, fraternity, and football; it was simply not possible for him to give less than 100% in life. His presence exuded integrity, love, and adventure, leaving behind a legacy that will never be forgotten. Though his physical presence is gone, his spirit, grace, and commitment to those he loved will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Funeral arrangements include visitation on Monday, May 12, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, culminating with the eulogy and rosary at Porter Loring Mortuaries, 2102 N. Loop 1604 E, San Antonio, TX 78232.
The funeral Mass will take place on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church, 1602 Thousand Oaks Drive, San Antonio, TX, 78232, and burial at Holy Cross Cemetery, 17501 Nacogdoches Road, San Antonio, TX, 78266.
A reception will be held after the burial at St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church. Please join us as we share stories and celebrate Michael’s amazing life.
Instead of flowers, the family requests donations in Michael’s honor to Wonders & Worries or the Richard Martinez Cancer Fund. Wonders & Worries is a non-profit organization that provides free, professional support for children and teens whose parents have a serious medical condition. The Richard Martinez Cancer Fund is a non-profit organization dedicated to paying the cancer-related medical expenses of law enforcement officers.
Michael, you will be deeply missed, but your love and light will remain with us always.