Raul G. Estrada

Master Sergeant Raul G. Estrada Ret. US Army, a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, proud Army veteran, and cherished brother, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2026, at the age of 89.

Born on November 14, 1936, to Tomas Estrada and Hipolita Garcia Estrada, Raul was raised with strong family values that remained at the heart of his life. He was a man of quiet strength, dedication, and resilience, whose love for his family was evident in all that he did.

Raul proudly served his country in the United States Army, dedicating years of his life to the service and protection of his nation as well as serving two tours during the Vietnam War. He endured arduous and demanding Special Forces training to become a proud Green Beret with the 5th and 7th Special Forces Group. His military career was a meaningful chapter of his life, reflecting his discipline, courage, commitment, and sense of duty. During his time in the military Raul Estrada earned many awards such as the Army Service Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Master Parachute Badge, Bronze Star Medal for his heroic act of bravery,  Overseas Service Ribbon, NCO Professional Development Ribbon, Vietnam Campaign Medal with 60 Device, Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, Vietnam Service Medal, and six Good Conduct Medals, along with 5th and 7th Special Forces Group. After a distinguished career, Raul retired from the Army and worked at Kelly Air Force Base as an aircraft mechanic until the closure of Kelly Air Force Base. He carried with him the pride of having served his country and the lasting bonds and memories formed through his years of military service.

Above all, Raul treasured his family. He was the beloved husband of Guadalupe Estrada, with whom he shared a lifetime of love and companionship. He was a loving father to Patricia A. Estrada, Stephanie Estrada, and Elizabeth Melendez (Mario). His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Timothy Melendez and Nathaniel Zapata, who brought him great joy and pride.

Raul is also survived by his siblings, Rodolfo G. Estrada and Olga Williams, along with his extended family and all those whose lives he touched throughout his 89 years.

In his quieter moments, Raul found happiness in the simple things. He enjoyed fishing, woodworking, reading, and cooking, hobbies that reflected his patience, creativity, curiosity, and love of creating things with his own hands. He had a particular fondness for hues of blue, perhaps fitting for a man who enjoyed the peacefulness of the outdoors and the water. Music was also a special part of his life, especially country and Tejano music, which provided a familiar soundtrack to many cherished moments.

Raul will be remembered for his strength, his dedication to his country, his love for his family, and the wisdom and memories he leaves behind. His life was one of service, family, and quiet moments that became lasting memories.

Though he is no longer with us, Raul’s legacy lives on in the family he loved, the lessons he shared, the stories that will continue to be told, and the countless memories held close by those who knew him.

He served his country with honor, loved his family with devotion, and lived a life worthy of remembrance.

The Visitation will be held on Thursday September 17, 2026, at Funeraria Del Angel Trevino Funeral Home, 226 Cupples Road, San Antonio Texas 78237 from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm, with a Rosary Service at 7:00 pm.

The processional will depart from the funeral home Friday September 18, 2026, at 10:30 am for an 11:00 am Mass of The Resurrection at St. John Berchmans’ Catholic Church 1147 Cupples Rd. San Antonio Texas 78226.

Interment followed at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd, San Antonio, TX 78209.