Roberto C. Villanueva

Our dearest brother and friend, Roberto C. Villanueva, 71, of San Antonio passed away peacefully at home during Holy Week on Thursday, April 14, 2022.  Bob was the sixth of nine children born to Encarnacion and Menalia Villanueva on September 14, 1950.

Bob attended school and church at Immaculate Conception. He also attended La Salle High School, where he enjoyed playing football. Bob graduated from Fox Tech High School in 1969.

Bob proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War as part of the Americal Division, 11th Light Infantry Brigade, 1st Battalion, 20th Infantry. He was wounded by mortar and rifle attack, and awarded the Purple Heart. Other commendations include Army Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal (2 Campaign Stars), Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Combat Infantry Badge. After months of recuperation at Fort Sam Houston Army Medical Hospital, he completed his tour of duty at Fort Hood and was honorably discharged.

Bob studied horticulture at San Antonio College and worked for the city of San Antonio Parks and Recreation. After his father’s passing, Bob became a dedicated and loving care giver to his mother until her death in 1997. Bob cherished the time spent with her sharing facts of various types of plants, origin, and their life cycle. Despite enduring difficulties from his injuries for the remainder of his life, Bob lived a simple modest life. Those who knew him can remember his kindness and generosity. Bob never hesitated to help a stranger in need. He enjoyed restoring outdated tools and broken toys only to bestow them to beloved friends and family. He was most often found in the garage woodworking while listening to his favorite country music. If asked about a preferred getaway, Bob would always certainly choose Corpus Christi beach.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, brother Ramon and sister-in-law Maria Pena Villanueva. He is survived by seven siblings; sisters, Linda Ruiz and Alicia Howell, brothers Joe, Jesse, Daniel, Carlos, and John. Also included are nieces, nephews, and great-nieces/nephews who cherished spending time with him, enjoying his dry humor, jokes, and cheerful smile. All who knew Bob are extremely saddened by his loss and will forever treasure the wonderful memories he gifted this world. Rest In Peace, dearest Bob!

Lord Jesus, we beseech your infinite mercy for our beloved brother Bob who You have taken in his final steps towards everlasting life. You promised eternal salvation so generously to all who believe in You. O Lord, we are Yours, and You are with us. In Your infinite goodness, please grant eternal rest to our brother Robert and may Your perpetual light shine upon him. Amen.

Visitation will begin on Monday, April 25, at 5:00 P.M. with a Rosary to be recited at 7:00 P.M. at the Angelus Chapel.  Funeral Mass will be offered on Tuesday, April 26, at 10:00 A.M. at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.  Interment will follow in San Fernando Archdiocesan Cemetery # 2.