Rodolfo Lorenzo Santoyo

Rodolfo Santoyo, a man of deep love, quiet strength, and enduring humor, passed away peacefully on May 31, 2025, just two weeks after receiving the gift of life through a kidney transplant on May 17. Though his time after the transplant was brief, he was filled with profound gratitude and peace. In an extraordinary act of generosity, even in death, Rodolfo became an organ donor, giving the gift of sight to others through the donation of his corneas.

Born in El Paso, Texas, Rodolfo made San Antonio his home for the past 23 years alongside his beloved wife, Dorothy H. Santoyo. Their love story spanned 23 devoted years — years filled with laughter, unwavering support, and small, meaningful moments. Rodolfo was a loving husband who treated Dorothy like a princess. He cared for her deeply, ensuring she had what she needed, anticipating her needs without her ever asking, and always offering encouragement with a steady and loving hand.

He was a man who found joy in life’s simplest pleasures — walking outdoors, teaching his grandchildren that the best things in life don’t cost a thing, and sharing his wisdom and warmth with family, friends, and even strangers. He taught them how to treat others with kindness, like opening grandma’s car door, and to always lend a helping hand.

A proud “Mr. Fix It,” Rodolfo had a knack for home repairs — not always on your schedule, but always done with care and precision. You’d go to bed wondering if it would ever get done, and wake up to find it magically completed. That was just his way.

Rodolfo was voted Maintenance Employee of the Year at his workplace — a reflection of his reliability, work ethic, and heart for service. He was the go-to guy for anyone in need of advice or help with a repair, always ready to lend a hand and share his knowledge.

He loved enchiladas — especially the red ones Dorothy made. On those days, he’d request them for both lunch and dinner, and no one doubted he could eat them twice. It wouldn’t be a surprise if a chili pepper sprouted in place of grass at his final resting site — such was his passion for the dish.

Despite experiencing severe health challenges — including the loss of a kidney during a biopsy and the subsequent year on dialysis — Rodolfo remained positive, active, and strong. His spirit never wavered, and his faith never faded. He was overjoyed and thankful when he received his kidney transplant, and both he and Dorothy praised God for the answered prayers. Even through pain, he kept moving, exercising, and staying connected to what he loved most: his family.

Rodolfo was also a natural jokester, with a smile and a witty comment always at the ready. He brought lightness to heavy days and laughter to the lives around him.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Dorothy H. Santoyo; his children, James (Walter) Brown, Diana Santoyo, Lupe Chavez, Rodolfo (Blue) Santoyo, Faith and Oscar Villarreal, James and Jennifer Rivera; + Hope Rivera, grandchildren Rodolfo (Sas), Mia, Jesus, April, Adrian, Esmeralda, Aiden, Ruben, Mason, Ashleigh, Christian, Orion, Olin, Oriana, Aileen, Aliana, Oscar Jr. & Genesis, Natalie, Austin, Noah, James Jr., and Jason; and great-grandchildren Christian, Bodie, and Azariah. Mother + Hermenia Salas, Sisters and Brothers: Minnie (Santoyo) & Gilbert Lopez, Vicky Zometa & Estevan Santoyo, Norma Santoyo, + Alicia Galindo, +Martha Gallegos, Roberta (Bobbie) Estrada, Mary & Jesse Lotspeich, Charles Hooper, Rual & Isela Hooper, Linda Hooper Sepulveda, Boyce & Vicki Hooper, deeply loved and profoundly missed by them all.

Services: June 20th, 2025

Celebration of life for Rodolfo Lorenzo Santoyo

Sunset Funeral Home

910 North Loop 1604 E, San Antonio, Texas

Visitation 1:00-1:30 PM

Rosary 1:30 PM

(Pax Christi Sisters)

Officiating Pastor: Sean Metcalf

(Community Bible Church of San Antonio)

June 23, 2025 10:00 AM

Rodolfo will be laid to rest

Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery

17501 Nacogdoches Rd.

San Antonio, TX 78266

Though we grieve Rodolfo’s passing, we rejoice in knowing he is with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ — the one he believed in wholeheartedly. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the love he gave, and the family he helped build.

Rest well, Rodolfo. You were, and always will be, deeply cherished.

Contributions to Child Advocates of San Antonio

www.casa-satx.org

210-375-9552

In memory of Rodolfo Santoyo