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Frank Liberto
1933 - 2017
Frank Liberto
1933 - 2017
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1933
DIED
2017
Frank Liberto Obituary
Liberto, who died Sunday, Nov. 5, gave birth to the iconic form of “ballpark nachos,” a simple dish of tortilla chips, cheese, and jalapenos, fit for mass consumption at stadiums and movie theaters across the country.
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Nachos had been a regional Tex-Mex snack for several decades before Liberto and his family’s company, Liberto Specialty Co., introduced their version to the public at a Texas Rangers baseball game in 1976. Liberto’s innovation was the cheese, a flavorful, viscous sauce that could quickly and easily be dispensed in a high-volume environment with little preparation.
Liberto credited the spicy snack’s boom in popularity to a Dallas Cowboys game broadcast on “Monday Night Football” in 1977, when announcer Howard Cosell mentioned them several times.
When Liberto died Sunday in San Antonio, at 84, the San Antonio Express-News noted that it was the day before National Nachos Day. You can read more about the life of this entrepreneur, veteran, and family man in his family obituary.
The next time you dip a chip at the ballpark, remember the man who saw that the concession stand could use a little extra spice.
51 Entries
Mandy pavs
March 7, 2025
Frank was mentioned in a Jeopardy the afternoon. Re: nachos
DorothyPartain O'Connor
December 11, 2018
God bless your family in their time of grief, but in their joy in knowing that he is with Our Lord forever.
Frank was an old friend from high school when we were both members of St. Ann's Youth Club there in San Antonio on Fredericksburg Road. He was the most likable person you could ever want to meet.
All my love, Dorothy Partain O'Connor
Janie Operational Technologies
March 5, 2018
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
November 24, 2017
My heartfelt prayers and condolences to the Liberto family. May Almighty God in his infinite wisdom grant solace during this most challenging time. Frank was truly an amazing and incredible man of integrity. He will be truly missed. With Love & Prayers ~ A Caring Neighbor
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Denise Griffin
November 13, 2017
Sending my deepest condolences to the entire Liberto Family on the passing of Frank. I really enjoyed getting to know Frank and all the Liberto's through the dental office that I worked at. Frank and Dr. Warburton always had the most entertaining stories and I loved listening to all of the shenanigans he and his schoolmates would get into in their younger days! He was one of a kind. May he rest in eternal peace.
Sincerely,
Denise Griffin
Balous Miller
November 13, 2017
Please accept my deepest condolences for your family's loss.
Connie Taubert
November 13, 2017
If Hank Taubert had not passed before Frank he would surely be by your sides to give comfort and love.
May God comfort and help you at this time. Sincerely, Connie Taubert
November 13, 2017
May the family find peace and comfort in knowing all sickness, all pain and death will one day be gone for this has been promised.
Enrico Falanga
November 12, 2017
Frank was such a caring, smart and talented entrepreneur that thought me so much over the years not only about business but also about life! He was my greatest mentor and I feel very blessed to have had the opportunity to work, travel and have many great fun memories with Frank. He will be dearly missed and may he rest in eternal peace with the Lord!
Pedro Martinez
November 12, 2017
Our deepest condolences to the Liberto family. We remember Frank fondly from our time working at Liberto's Specialty Co. on Military Plaza, behind City Hall. - Maria del Socorro Hernandez Martinez and Pedro Martinez.
Tony Carriere
November 12, 2017
Our sincere sympathy and thoughts are with you and your family. Your neighbors Nancy Wulff and Tony Carriere
Pete Fellner
November 12, 2017
Our thoughts, prayers and memories will be with the Liberto's forever. Frank was a Great man and a Great friend! We spent many weekends at the coast and will always remember the generosity of Frank and his family. Frank will be missed but never forgotten!! Rest In Peace. The Fellner's
Jimmy and Susan Peet
November 12, 2017
His smile would light up a room! He was successful in many ways; mainly for leaving the world better than he found it. A journey well traveled. I can only imagine his smile now as he walks with our Lord! Our thoughts and prayers are with his family as they make the adjustment to not seeing him physically. Spiritually, he will never leave your side. ❤
Charlie Gomez
November 12, 2017
Frank was a great man who had a deep influence on my life. He will be greatly missed but his legacy will last forever.
Della and Richard Scalan
November 12, 2017
We will miss your visits to the "Dolphin Room" in Port A. each year. Our prayers for you, Tony and all
Axel M.T.
November 12, 2017
Condolences to the Liberto family for their loss. Frank seems like a very happy and joyful person. May God bring the Liberto family comfort and encouragement during these difficult times. (2 Cor 1:3)
November 12, 2017
My condolences to the family. May our heavenly Father bring comfort to your grieving hearts and grant you peace during this difficult time. Psalms 29:11
November 11, 2017
"Franks food innovation made the theater and ball park experience all the more enjoyable for millions. I'm very sorry for this great loss. May Family of Frank Liberto draw comfort through these heartwarming passages: Hosea 13:14, Philippians 4:6,7"
Ernest Velasquez
November 10, 2017
My prayers goes to my friend Frank. He was my boss and a good friend.. I used work with frank. May god bless you in heaven... Mr.Ernest Velasquez Jr.
Sherry Hearn jessop
November 10, 2017
Pat,Denise, tony and Rick my heart goes out to you but you guys were so lucky to have a wonderful man like frank in your life. He made an impression on every person he ever met. My favorite memories were Frank doing his "magic" tricks for me as a cold and for my kids
My prayers are with you
Love
Sherry Hearn Jessop
Simon & Debra Esparza
November 10, 2017
Great pleasure to have known Mr Liberto over the course of my 25 year history with Ricos. Amazing what he has done with this awesome company and the great culture he has left. Many condolences to the family, and to the Ricos family. Prayers and blessings to all of you!
Mary Day
November 10, 2017
My siblings and I grew up with the Libertos at the end of our block on Beverly Drive. You helped us make fond memories. Our heartfelt condolences to your family on Frank's passing.
Crystal Hernandez & Teresa Nunez
November 10, 2017
May care and love of those around you provide comfort and peace to get you through the days ahead. Find peace knowing that a person that departs from this earth never truly leaves, for they are still alive in our hearts, through us, they live on. My deepest condolences.
Roy & Carmen Steves
November 10, 2017
Our condolences to Pat and the family. Frank was one of a kind. Always an lnnovator, it's no surprise he was so successful in life. I have many memories from Central, St Mary's, Ft Sill and later.
Debbie Segovia
November 10, 2017
My deepest condolences to the Liberto Family. The memories of Frank will live on thru the many lives he touched. Continued prayers for the family at this difficult time.
nita kerger
November 10, 2017
Dear Pat and family .I wish I could say a prayer and take away your pain and grief, but I would like you to know I will have you in my thoughts and prayers. Thinking of all the good times , and Frank were always there for every one He will be so remembered as the person that could get anything done well
Kenneth and Diane Walker
November 10, 2017
We are sorry for your loss. We will be praying for the family.
November 10, 2017
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
November 10, 2017
My condolences to the Liberto Family for the loss of your beloved Frank. I am not able to visit the movie without buying my young ones the Nachos & Cheese snack. They love it thanks to Frank's brilliant idea. May the hope that God's word gives us for those we lost in death be comforting, faith building and encouraging to you (John 6:40) ~ Linda, Queens, NY
Ron Boto
November 9, 2017
I never knew or even met Mr. Liberto, but his entrepreneurship and innovation are qualities any business person can respect and admire.
Jill King
November 9, 2017
Frank taught me everything I know in our crazy concession industry. I had the pleasure of working with him for 15 fabulous years. Rest in Peace Frank- and to the family, my deepest sympathies. Jill King
Great Memories
Feliberto (Beto) Elizondo
November 9, 2017
My condolences 2 the family.
My time with the company was memorable. Frank taught me quiet a few things but what stands out was how 2 b more carasmatic.
Thank U Frank for being a mentor.
RIP
Feliberto (Beto) G. Elizondo
Harlingen, Texas
Ricky & Leslie Powers
November 9, 2017
Our deepest sympathies to the family in this difficult time.
L Wa
November 9, 2017
Please accept my sincere condolences for your loss. Know that the God of all comfort is near to all those who call on Him in truth . (Psalms145:18,19)
Cheryl Lynn
November 9, 2017
May the comfort and strength only God can supply be with the Liberto family during this most difficult time.
November 9, 2017
My heartfelt sympathy goes out to family and friends for the lost of their beloved Frank. I hope the promise at John 6:39 can bring real comfort. Knowing that there is hope for our lost love ones can be reassuring.
November 8, 2017
Offering my deepest sympathy to the family. Thoughts and prayers in the days ahead.
Hector Garza
November 8, 2017
My sincere condolences to Mrs Liberto, Tony, Rick and Denise. Mr Liberto was a remarkable and genuine person that left a positive impression on me. I have never forgotten the countless adventures he would tell me including the stories of him and Mrs Liberto. Even though he preferred being called Frank, I always gave him my utmost respect and referred to him as, Mr Liberto. Rest In Peace, my friend. -Sincerely, Hector Garza
Carlotta
November 8, 2017
May the God of all peace bring comfort to the Liberty family and friends at this difficult time.
Gloria Espino
November 8, 2017
WITH OUR DEEPEST CONDOLENCES TO ALL THE LIBERTO FAMILY.....MY MAMA "DOLORES CASTILLO" WORKED FOR FRANK BACK IN THE LATE 60's thru the early 70's AND HELPED HIM AND WORKED AT THE SHOPPERS WORLD SNACK-BAR LOCATIONS IN SAN ANTONIO AND OUT OF TOWN WHEN FRANK WOULD OPEN ANOTHER STORE....I HELPED AND WORKED WITH MY MAMA AFTER SCHOOL TO HELP OUT IN SAN ANTONIO WHEN POSSIBLE....I REMEMBER FRANK LIBERTO AS A WONDERFUL MAN WITH A PURE HEART OF GOLD HELPING PEOPLE........MAY HE REST IN PEACE....GOD BLESS ALL THE LIBERTO FAMILY.....AGAPE..GLORIA CASTILLO ESPINO
Scott Chamberland
November 8, 2017
Rest in Peace
November 8, 2017
Oh how many lives he has touched. I many memories of eating nachos with my brother at the movies growing up. What a wonderful treat! May your family find comfort through prayer to our Heavenly Father.
Evette
November 8, 2017
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Gina Perez
November 8, 2017
Mr. Frank - you are truly a legend and an inspiration. You will be missed by so many.
May peace be with your family and everyone who loved you.
Bob Kilgore
November 8, 2017
Dear Pat, Tony, and family: I was saddened to read of Frank's passing. He was one of my first clients and one of the best. He always looked for creative ways to solve problems, and encouraged me to do the same. He was one of a kind. Although he will be missed, he will always be close at hand. My thoughts and prayers are with each of you during this time of grieving and remembrance. Best wishes to all of you--Bob Kilgore
Gay Meyer
November 8, 2017
Pat & Family, The world is a lesser place with out him. The great fun we had will all ways be with us.
Michael McGuire
November 8, 2017
I'm blessed and appreciative to have worked, laughed, and fished with Frank.
Dorothy Velez
November 8, 2017
Mr. Liberto was a great man and will be greatly missed. Treasure your memories and they will help to heal your heart during this difficult time. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. With sincerest condolences, Dorothy Velez
Romy Vela
November 8, 2017
Our prayers are with Frank and his family.
Coach Romy Vela and Ms. Vela
Renie Keller
November 7, 2017
Dear Pat and family: I'm so sorry to hear that Frank recently passed away. It was eight days less than 2 years ago (11-13-15) that Don passed away and I'm sure Don, Jimmy, Carl and several others have been waiting for Frank to join them in Heaven. I'm sure God has given them all permission to get together and talk about the good old days we used to have. I miss Don as I'm sure you miss Frank, but we still have our happy memories imbedded deep in our hearts. My sincere condolences and prayers are with you and your family. Love, Renie Keller
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