Robert H. Garza

Robert was born in San Antonio to Alberto Garza and Beatrice Hettler on August 4, 1945. A proud graduate of Brackenridge High School, he shared his passion for music as a drummer in the Eagle Marching Band. During his high school years, Robert was a witness to history: he celebrated the Eagles' momentous 1962 Texas Class 4A State Football Championship and, just a year later, caught a glimpse of President John F. Kennedy as the motorcade passed by Brackenridge on the day before the President’s assassination. A gifted student of the arts and technical design, Robert achieved statewide acclaim in 1965, winning first place in the Texas High School Drawing Competition and being named State Champion in the Drafting Competition at the Texas Industrial Arts Fair, both hosted by Texas A&M University.

Following graduation, Robert answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy. A decorated Veteran of the Vietnam War, he served as an engineer on board Assault Support Patrol Boat 132-1, a unit of River Assault Squadron THIRTEEN, engaged in joint operations with elements of the 2nd Brigade, 9th Infantry Division of the United States Army. This unique Army/Navy force was known as the Mobile Riverine Force or “Brown-Water Navy”. He participated in numerous combat missions that struck deep into the enemy infested waters of the Mekong Delta and inflicted heavy losses to the enemy. For his bravery, sacrifice, and injuries received while securing waterways under enemy fire, he was awarded the Purple Heart Medal and subsequent Gold Star in lieu of second medal, the Navy Achievement Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal (2), and the Vietnam Campaign Medal (D).

Upon his honorable discharge, Robert returned home to San Antonio and married the love of his life, Gloria Castillo, on January 31, 1970. Their love story began at the Texas Theater, where he worked as an usher and she as a concessionaire who famously sneaked him popcorn drizzled with chili. Following his military service, Robert dedicated over thirty years to the commercial hardware industry, where he was known for his technical expertise and strong work ethic. He began his career alongside his cousin, Johnny Hatch, at Universal Building Specialties, learning the foundations of the trade. Robert later brought his talents to the Ceco Corporation and Dumas Hardware, where he spent many years contributing to the growth and development of San Antonio’s architectural landscape, including landmarks such as the “Pyramid Building” at Loop 410 and San Pedro. His lifelong talent for drafting and design extended far beyond his career; he took great pride in building projects around the family home and spent many hours meticulously helping his children with their own school projects. He was a respected figure among his colleagues, valued as much for his professional knowledge as for his integrity.

Robert is preceded in death by his parents, Alberto and Beatrice; his brothers, Albert and Manuel; and his sister, Ernestine.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Gloria; his children, Michael (Adriana) Garza and Regina (Michael) Gutierrez; and his sister, Gloria (Richard) Shelton. He also leaves behind his nine cherished grandchildren, Katarina, Samuel, Hannah, Alejandra, Isabella, Mia, Selah, Naomi, and Chloe; and his great-grandchild, Valentina.

Services:

Visitation: Tuesday, February 3, at 5:00 p.m. at Sunset Funeral Home, 1701 Austin Hwy.

Rosary: Tuesday, February 3, at 6:30 p.m. at Sunset Funeral Home, with a reception to follow immediately.

Funeral Mass: Wednesday, February 4, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Monica’s Catholic Church in Converse.

Interment: Burial with military honors will follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.

The Garza family wishes to extend their sincere gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff at Methodist Hospital for their tireless care for Robert and their compassion toward the family during this difficult time. A special debt of gratitude is owed to Antoinette Garza; Robert’s sister in-law. Her unwavering love and devoted presence at his bedside during his final weeks were a blessing to Robert and a comfort to us all.