August 27, 1951-February 6, 2022

Maria “Lupe” Guadalupe was born in Mexico City on August 27, 1951. At a young age, Lupe, along with her parents, Carlos and Maria Luisa, and her older brother Carlos, left Mexico and started a new life in the USA. The young family settled in Harlingen and later in Corpus Christi. As a young child, Lupe loved learning and excelled in school. She graduated from Foy H. Moody High School in Corpus Christi and then received her B.A. in Education at the University of Texas at Austin. She then completed her Master’s Degree in Education from the University of Texas-San Antonio. As a young teacher, she taught English as a Second Language (ESL) to many young students in the San Antonio area. Her years in the classroom made her a champion for bilingual education and for creating opportunities for all children. Her education consulting firm, Lupe Lloyd and Associates, provided teacher training for over three decades. Her company and focused leadership helped shape bilingual education and dual language programs in the American Southwest and beyond.

She is preceded in death by her son, Roger Anthony “Tony” Lloyd and her father, Carlos R. Nieto, and her baby sister Graciela Nieto. Lupe is survived by her husband, Juan Perez Rivera; her son, Jack Nicholas Lloyd; her mother, Maria Luisa Nieto; her brothers and sisters, Dr. Carlos Nieto and his wife, Suzy, Mary Lou Thompson and her husband, Michael, Cathy Nieto D’anna, Fernando Nieto and his wife, Sonia and Dr. Robert Nieto and his wife, Gloria; step-children, Juan Raul Rivera, Laxmye Bass and her husband, Joshua and Roxana Aguilar; step-grandchildren, Gabby, Ricky, Anthony, Jazzy, Elijah, Jaelyn, Penny and Jocelyn; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The funeral Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church at 11:30 am on Monday, February 14, 2022.

April 6, 1938-January 30, 2022

Our Beloved Frances Claire Carver; Wife, Mother, Sister, Aunt, Gramma, Great Gramma, and Friend peacefully passed away at home with her family by her side on Sunday, January 30, 2022.

On April 6, 1938, Frances Claire Little was born to the proud parents of Bernadine Mac Pherson Little and Reginald Matthew Little in Patchogue, Long Island, New York.

The family moved to San Antonio, TX in September of 1943, where Claire attended St. Ann’s and Providence Catholic schools. Claire married her neighborhood sweetheart, John David Carver of San Antonio, on April 6, 1956.

Claire is survived by her husband, John Carver of 65 years and their children and spouses, W. Matthew Carver, Kimberly/Jim Keedy, Lisa/Mike Brown, Stephanie/John Taylor; 10 grandchildren and spouses, Kelly Carver, Leigha Carver, John Matthew/Emily Carver, Hunter Brown, Nicholas Brown, Parker Brown, John (JC)/Chantelle Taylor, Brennan/Addison Taylor, Zachary/Sara Taylor and Trevor Taylor; 8.5 great-grandchildren: Jordyn Carver, Baby Carver (0.5), Ella Taylor, Charlie Taylor, Lucy Taylor, Tommy Taylor, Riley Taylor, Brodi Taylor, Avery Taylor; sisters-in-law, Audrey (Dee Dee) White and Patricia Little; numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and life-long friends.

Claire is preceded in death by her firstborn child, John Matthew Carver; her parents, Bernadine and Reginald Little; brother, Reginald M. Little, Jr.; her twin sisters, Rose Mary Czarnecki and Emma Lou Adams; mother-in-law, Mary Louise Carver Louderback.

Claire was a devoted wife, a loving and caring mother, a proud Gramma and Great Gramma. Claire was a mother to many more than just four. She provided a home to numerous orphan animals of all sorts. Claire loved hosting gatherings, cooking, gardening, and shopping. Our loving mother and endearing friend loved us and life. Claire was a friend to the end.

Claire worked along with her father and then her husband in family businesses. Claire even started a small floral business called “The Perfect Touch.” Claire also was an exclusive sales representative for high-end fragrances at Frost Brothers, Saks, Foley’s and Macy’s.

But, Claire’s proudest accomplishment was her family. She always believed in us to do and say the right thing, never say the word ‘hate’, to be there, AND to love each other bunches and bunches.

The Carver family would like to thank those who loved and cared for Claire; our entire family and friends; many caregivers, especially Pearl Beltran, Luciana (Lucy) Del Puerto, Noemi (Mimi) Ashcraft and Maggie Lewis; Accent Care Hospice, esp. Music Therapist, Kaitlyn Davila, Maria, Lisa and Ryan; and many many more.

Memorial services honoring Claire’s life and memory were held on Wednesday, February 9, 2022 at Porter Loring Mortuary North Chapel.

A Funeral Mass was celebrated on Thursday, February 10, 2022 at St. Francis of Assisi. Interment followed at Mission Burial Park, North at 20900 IH 10 West, 78257.

December 7, 1936-November 21, 2021

Myrna L. Grabinger, age 84, passed away on Sunday, November 21, 2021 in San Antonio, Texas. She was born December 7, 1936 in Alice, Texas to Lilia Vedia and Martin Lopez.

Myrna grew up in Alice where she graduated high school and went on to study Elementary Education in San Antonio at the University of the Incarnate Word. There she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1970. Myrna highly valued education and earned a Master of Education degree from Our Lady of the Lake University in 1977 while raising three young children. She spent most of her career teaching and educating young minds at Stafford Elementary from which she retired in 1991.

She was a bright, energetic, and adventurous soul and enjoyed socializing, dancing, and traveling. As a member of the Red Hats Society, she participated in many Church events. Myrna’s love for travel took her many places. One of her favorites was Estes Park which she discovered while living in Colorado. The mountains, river, and wildlife brought her peace and joy.

Myrna was the heart of her family as was evident in the ways she brought them together, whether near or far, by encouraging and planning gatherings. Of utmost importance to her were her faith and her family. Her grandkids were her sunshine and she lit up with pride in their presence.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lilia and Martin; her brothers, Martin, Cesar, and Homero; and sisters, Sylvia and Jilma. Myrna is survived by her husband of 50 years, Ronald Grabinger; children, Sylvia Yvette Silva-Cantu, Keith Grabinger and wife Betsy, and Trisha Grabinger; grandchildren, Lauren Silva, Jeremy Cantu, Amy Cantu, Hudson Grabinger, Grayson Grabinger, Madeline Twyman, and Margaret Twyman; brothers, Mario Lopez of Palm Coast, Florida and Arturo Lopez of El Paso, Texas; as well as numerous extended family members and a lifetime of friends.

The family will receive friends for visitation from 5:00 to 7:00 PM on Sunday, December 12, 2021, at Porter Loring Mortuary North.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2021
7:00 P.M. ROSARY
PORTER LORING MORTUARY NORTH

MONDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2021
12:00 P.M. MASS
ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI CATHOLIC CHURCH

MONDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2021
2:00 to 4:00 P.M. RECEPTION
ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI CATHOLIC CHURCH
HENKE HALL

October 16, 1927-November 21, 2021

Captain Donald Prieto Garrido (USNR) passed away on November 21, 2021, at the age of 94.

Donald was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, on October 16, 1927, to Velma (Prieto) Garrido and Salvador Garrido. He began his sea-bound career as a Merchant Marine at the age of 15 aboard the S.S. War Admiral. For his service during World War II and the Korean War, Donald was awarded various service medals. He rose to the rank of Captain with the U.S. Navy. He was awarded the Navy Meritorious Civilian Service Award for his participation in the rescue of the Italian Ship S.S. Tripolitania.

Donald was raised as a Master Mason in Zeredatha Lodge No. 131 in Jersey City, N.J. in 1952. During his 69 years of active Masonry, he served as Worshipful Master of Cibolo Lodge No. 151, presiding officer in all three York Rite Bodies, presiding officer in all four Scottish Rite Bodies, and Wolcott Foundation Trustee. He was decorated a 33rd degree Mason and elected to the rank of Grand Cross of the Court of Honour. He was a Past Potentate of Abou Saad Temple in the Canal Zone, Panama, and was very active in the High Twelve International. Donald received the Golden Trowel Award in 2019.

A job opportunity led Donald to the Republic of Panama and he called Panama home for most of his life. He rose to the position of Chief Pilot with the Panama Canal Commission and retired in 1994 after 32 years of service. Donald completed his education at Florida State University.

 Donald served as the Chairman of the Crippled and Burned Children’s Committee for Central and South America. He helped coordinate for hundreds of children from impoverished areas to receive prosthetics and burn treatment in Texas.

Donald and his wife, Lydia, retired in San Antonio, Texas. They enjoyed traveling, family time, good friends, and dim sum most Sundays.

Donald will always be remembered as the beloved husband of 51 years of Lydia Garrido; loving father of Darnella Behrens (Jürgen), Kira Fischer (Hans Peter), Lydia Robledo (Victor), and Ronald Garrido (Elizabeth); loyal brother of Wendy Rein, and Harold Pluche; proud grandfather “Papa” of Barbara Bohne, Viola Seibert, Helena Behrens, Matthias Kelle, Lorena Robledo, Joaquin Robledo, Aaron Garrido, Celeste Garrido, and Andrew Garrido; great-grandfather of Alexander Bohne, Juri Seibert, and Mira Seibert.

The family wishes to express loving gratitude towards Angel Estrada, Sarah Nieves, Margarita Alvarez, and Rhoda Tapawan for their compassionate caregiving.

A viewing for family and friends will be held at Porter Loring Mortuary North on December 13 from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m., followed by a rosary service.

A funeral Mass will be held at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 4201 De Zavala Rd, on December 14, at 11:30 a.m. Donald will be laid to rest at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery with military honors.

To honor his generous spirit, the family requests that donations be made in Donald’s name to the Shriner’s Hospital for Children at https://donate.lovetotherescue.org, in lieu of flowers.

May 2, 1943-November 18, 2021

Leonard Michael Rucinski, age 78, passed away on November 18, 2021 in San Antonio, Texas. He was born to Wanda Rydell and Edward Leonard Rucinski on May 2, 1943. Leonard grew up in Chicago, Illinois. and was a die-hard Bears fan. At age 17 he enlisted in the Navy and served four years as a Fire Control Technician aboard the U.S.S. Roberts. He was proud to be a veteran and someone who truly loved his country. After discharge, he went to work for Jewel Foods, where he met his wife, Mickie. Following a brief courtship, they were married and have enjoyed 56 years of marriage. He had an amazing career at Pitney Bowes Corporation in sales management, retiring after 30 years. Shortly after retiring, he and Mickie moved to Hot Springs Village, Arkansas where they enjoyed several activities, but his greatest enjoyment was being an active member of the Knights of Columbus. He had many interests throughout his life, showing Great Danes, coaching his three sons in football and baseball, volunteering to be Santa Claus for ill children, and later loved attending many of his grandkids’ events. He was passionate about family and was loved by all who had a chance to meet him.

Leonard Rucinski was preceded in death by his mother, Wanda; father, Edward; Dad, Joseph Sowa. He is survived by wife, Marguerite “Mickie”; sons, Edward (Shari), Joseph (Cyndi), Len (Margot); nine grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; siblings, Dennis (Trish) Sowa, Sharon (Bob) Sowa Freer.

The family will receive friends from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm on Wednesday, December 1, 2021, at Porter Loring Mortuary North, with a service to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society here: https://www.cancer.org/.

February 22, 1931-October 20, 2021

Alma Winfield Sanz, age 90, of San Antonio, Texas passed away on Wednesday, October 20, 2021. Alma was born on February 22, 1931.

A lifelong resident of San Antonio, Alma graduated from Fox Tech High School in 1949 and went on to work as an administrative assistant for the Internal Revenue Service. There, she met her future husband, IRS agent Ralph August Sanz.

The pair wed in 1959 and Alma took time off to raise their three children before returning to work, first for the San Antonio Ballet Company and later for the U.S. Air Force.

Throughout her life, Alma was known for her warm heart and generous spirit. Though not rich, she was acutely aware that there were many who were less fortunate, and she happily shared what she had. Strangers were always welcome at her table, and she never met a stray she wouldn’t take in. From her childhood cat Snowball to her final beloved dog, Tiny, all her pets were well-loved and deeply treasured.

Alma is preceded in death by her loving husband, Ralph, and their infant daughter Linda. She is survived by her three children, Cynthia Carstens (Jeff Carstens), Laurie LaPenotiere-Woolard (Scott Woolard), and Larry Sanz, along with her three grandchildren, Colin LaPenotiere and Jordan and Sydney Sanz.

A visitation for Alma will be held Wednesday, November 10, 2021 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 4201 De Zavala Rd, San Antonio, Texas 78249. A rosary service will occur on Wednesday, November 10, 2021 at 7:00 PM, 4201 De Zavala Rd, San Antonio, Texas 78249. A funeral Mass will occur on Thursday, November 11, 2021 at 11:00 AM, 4201 De Zavala Rd, San Antonio, Texas 78249. A graveside service will occur on Thursday, November 11, 2021 at 12:30 PM at San Fernando #2 Cemetery, 746 Castroville Rd, San Antonio, Texas 78237.

July 6, 1929-September 28, 2021

Thomas Dougherty Higgins, Jr., was born in San Antonio, Texas on July 6, 1929. Tom graduated from Central Catholic High School in San Antonio, received a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from St. Mary University in San Antonio, Texas and a Masters degree in chemistry from the University of Texas, Austin, Texas.

Tom had a career in scientific research for Monsanto Co. for 36 years. He was enlisted in the Army Air Corps-Air Force in 1946 and served in Shanghai, China. Tom was an Emeritus member of the American Chemical Society and had a passion for Ballroom dancing.

He is survived by his wife, Gloria; daughters, Susan Schmitz and Patrice Higgins; and grandchildren, Brian Schmitz and Camille Schmitz. Tom is preceded by his parents, Thomas and Josephine Higgins.

The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church at 9643 Ferndale Rd, Dallas, TX 75238 at 10 am on October 28. The committal service will be at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery at 1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd, San Antonio, TX 78209 at 1:15 pm on November 3 followed by a prayer service at 3 pm at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church at 4201 De Zavala Rd, San Antonio, TX 78249.

August 8, 1948-September 12, 2021

Angela de Jesus Díaz Serna McConnell was born on August 8, 1948, in Medellín, Colombia. At an early age, she felt a calling to religious life and developed a close relationship with our Lord. Then she met John McConnell, and they fell in love. She married John Miner McConnell on July 17, 1971 at Santa Teresita Catholic Church in Medellín, Colombia. They settled down in Miami, Florida and raised three daughters: Bridget, Eileen, and Maureen. They moved to Texas in 1977, living first in Corpus Christi, and then moving to San Antonio in 1988.

Angela was always a devout Catholic and involved in multiple church ministries, such as being a Eucharistic minister and taking communion to residents at the nearby nursing home. She got an Associate’s degree in computer science and also worked as a language interpreter for the courts. After John’s death from leukemia in June 1994, she became a Nationally Certified Catholic Chaplain. Being a hospital chaplain gave her great joy because it combined her love for her Christian faith along with being of service to others and putting her faith into action. As a widow, she again felt a calling to religious life. She joined a Spanish community of religious women in 2017 and began working for a non-profit Christian charity called PRODEIN. In that role, she served the Quechua indigenous people in Perú before moving to Spain and working in Trujillo and Madrid.

Angela passed away on September 12, 2021 in Madrid, Spain after a fierce battle with COVID-19. She is survived by her daughters, six grandchildren (John, Dylan, Megan, Erin, David, and Tristan), and eleven siblings. Her loved ones know she is happy in Heaven with the Lord and all her loved ones who preceded her in death, including her parents and three siblings (Jorge, Estella, and Miriam). A Mass will be celebrated at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church at 11 am on Friday, October 15, 2021.

October 20, 1936-August 19, 2021

Daniel Gallegos was called by our Lord on Thursday, August 19, 2021. He was born to and preceded in death by his parents, Daniel Gallegos, Sr. and Manuela Mota Gallegos and brother, Joe Anthony Gallegos.

He leaves behind his loving wife of 57 years, Elida (Lou) Rosel Gallegos. Left to cherish his life are daughters, Danielle Gallegos Washatka and Margot B. Gallegos–Steinberg and son, Michael A. Gallegos. Also, his pride and joy, grandsons – Jack Gallegos (his Shadow), Quentin Steinberg, Dylan Steinberg, Devin Gallegos and Brian Gallegos, as well as granddaughters Mikaela Gallegos and Ellie Gallegos. Daniel is also survived by his sisters, Carmen Raymond and Maria Michelle Gallegos. And also to cherish his memory are his dear “circle of friends”, and many nephews and nieces.

Daniel is a former member and founder of St. Matthew Catholic Church, where he served as President of the St. Vincent de Paul, Men’s Club, and Knights of Columbus Council 4140. Daniel was currently a member of the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church and a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 15240.

Daniel was a graduate of Tech High School, Class of 1956 and nicknamed Houdini. He was a proud member of the United States Air Force with 20 years combined service with the Air Force, Army and Marine Reserves.

He retired from Civil Service at Kelly Air Force Base after 30 years of service. He always said his best assignment was with the 2866th GEEIA Squadron because it gave him the opportunity to travel to different countries while performing his job as an Equipment Specialist and Radar Installation Officer.

Daniel will be remembered as a quiet and soft-spoken man, who was always kind and caring and a friend to many. His greatest joy was spending time with his family. Daniel was a traveling man, and he had a passion for cruising even while in a wheelchair after foot surgery, his grandsons, Jack, QQ and Dyn made the trip enjoyable for him, always assuring his safety and comfort.

And, Daniel always said that he lived a long and happy life. He leaves a legacy of kindness and love to be cherished by his family, especially the grandchildren.

Papa, you will remain in our hearts forever.

SERVICES
The Rosary will begin at 11:00 A.M. followed by the Funeral Mass at 11:30 A.M on Friday, September 10, 2021 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 4201 De Zavala Road. A Celebration of his life will be held at a later date. Private interment with Military Honors will begin at 9:15 A.M. on Tuesday, September 14, 2021 at the Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Road.

May 15, 1930-August 21, 2021

John was called home to join the God he so faithfully believed in on August 21, 2021, surrounded by his children and loving companion at home in Helotes, TX. John was born in Howells, NE on May 15, 1930. He graduated from Conception High School in 1948 and studied four more years at Conception College, then spent a year at St. Paul’s Seminary in Minnesota. He was drafted into the Army and served 2 years. John attended Creighton University where he earned his BA in Education in 1957 and his MS in History in 1959. It was at Creighton where he met his first wife, Mary Ann Janda, studying German in the library.

John began his educational career at Papillion High School. He accepted a position in Oklahoma City to be the Vice-Superintendent of Catholic schools and then served as Superintendent. While in Oklahoma, John earned an Ed.D. in Education at the University of Oklahoma. An opportunity at Our Lady of the Lake University took John and the family to San Antonio in 1970, where he very happily lived, without ever having to pick up a snow shovel again. He took a position at the UT Dental school in 1973 and for many years thrived on his work, writing, and delivering workshops to teach clinicians how to be effective instructors.

John loved being an incarnate soul on this earth. He lived life enthusiastically with a joyful, grateful heart. He loved his family, loved to read and learn, loved to visit with people and always said, “God has been so good to me.” He loved being surrounded by his kids and grandkids. He enjoyed family celebrations, always recognizing the gift of family and God’s many blessings.

John prayed for his family and the world daily and lived a life of service. John was also a devoted volunteer. He was a volunteer at Christus Hospice for 26 years, where he sat with patients so they would not be alone, and then helping as an office volunteer. He was a volunteer with St Vincent De Paul for 17 years and organized the collection of food and delivery of Thanksgiving hampers for several years, always with efficiency and compassion.

John is survived by his children, Eileen, Theresa Funari, Daniel, Anne, and Chris; his grandchildren, Ashli Funari, Kellie, Cory and Maggie Martin, Robert Sinfield, Carson, Madeline and Reagan Kleffner; great-granddaughter, Addison Funari; brother, Don Kleffner (Janelle); sister, Lavina Mestl (Eugene); loving companion, Barbara Bauml; and will be missed by many nieces, nephews, and friends. John was preceded in death by his parents, Margaret and Leo Kleffner; his siblings, Stan Kleffner, Mildred Knobbe, Catherine Meister; his wife, Colleen J. Kleffner.

VISITATION is 6 pm on September 2 with ROSARY at 7 pm, Mission Park Funeral Home, 3401 Cherry Ridge.

FUNERAL MASS is September 3 at 11 am at Our Lady of Guadalupe, 13715 Riggs Rd, Helotes, with the burial to follow at Helotes Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Christus Hospice or Catholic Charities.