Pedro Contreras Mendez

Pedro Contreras Mendez, age 95, was called by The Lord on Saturday, November 8, 2025 in San Antonio, Texas. He was born on June 11, 1930 in San Marcos, Texas to Jose L. Mendez and Adelaida Contreras. He will forever be remembered fondly as a devoted husband and father, proud grandfather, loving brother, loyal veteran and cherished friend. He leaves behind a legacy rooted in service, love, and a quiet but unwavering strength.

Coming from a large family with twelve siblings he went to work early to help support his family, toiling in the cotton fields and later by working in a bowling alley. During his young adult life he developed a love for sports and athletic competition and became a locally acclaimed and accomplished baseball player earning the nickname “Speedy Pete” in recognition of his speed on the basepaths and athleticism on the field. He would maintain his love for the game throughout his life and played fast pitch softball during his military service commitment with the United States Air Force. Later he would become an avid golfer participating in regular tournaments with the Pan-American Golf Association. He became the first from his family to attend college and would obtain his undergraduate degree from Southwest Texas State University. He would later further his education and earn a Master Degree in Counselling. This would allow him to provide invaluable guidance to hundreds of middle school students within the Harlandale School District for over four decades.

Prior to enrolling in college Pedro proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, where he exemplified integrity, dedication, and honor. His service shaped him profoundly and became one of the great sources of pride in his life. He carried the discipline and sense of purpose he learned in the Air Force with him long after his military years ended.

Above all else, Pedro’s heart belonged to his beloved wife, Alice. Together they built a life filled with warmth, humor, and mutual devotion. They traveled extensively and shared a love for music and ballroom dancing. They became loving devoted parents to Becky and Gerald engaging them in cheerleading, athletics, music and most importantly instilling in them a respect and reverence for God and family.

Pedro was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Alice Mendez; and is survived by daughter, Becky Saenz and her husband Dr. Paul Saenz; son, Gerald Mendez and his wife Laura Mendez; grandsons, Nicholas, Stephen, and Jeffrey Saenz (wife Paulina) and Isaac, Javier and Luke Mendez; great-grandchildren Benjamin and Lucia Saenz.

Pedro will be remembered for his steady kindness, his quiet strength and humble wisdom. He cherished his family and close friends and made every person he encountered feel valued. His family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know him carry forward his spirit—one of gentleness, gratitude and respect.

The family will receive friends beginning at 6:00pm with a Rosary to follow at 7:00pm on Monday, December 22, 2025 at Porter Loring Mortuary North, 2102 North Loop 1604 East.

A Funeral Mass will take place at 11:30 am on Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at St Anthony de Padua Catholic Church, 102 Lorenz. Interment with Military Honors will follow in Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.