Andres Maldonado

1923 - 2018

November 30, 1923 - January 14, 2018
Andres Laracuente Maldonado began his life journey in Yauco, Puerto Rico, on November 30, 1923. He grew up with humble beginnings, alongside a sister and brother, but sadly lost his father at a young age. Despite this hardship, he continued to persevere in life.
He entered the Army at Fort Buchanan in Puerto Rico as a young man and was commissioned as Staff Sergeant. Later, he studied accounting at Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas. He met his wife, Pauline, on a blind date arranged by friends. They were married for 60 years, from 1948-2008.
Early on, he worked for the IRS and was employed by them for several years. He and his wife settled in the Dellview area and became one of the charter families in the parish of St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church and School.
He eventually opened his own accounting, bookkeeping and tax firm, Maldonado & Associates. A self-made businessman, he proceeded to singlehandedly create a successful business, serving clients for over 60 years. His noteworthy clientele included numerous prominent politicians, attorneys and physicians.
He continued to work until his health declined just a few months ago. His son, Jose Luis, has worked alongside him for 30 years. He continues this legacy, following in the footsteps of his father, and assisted by his two sons.
He was a lifelong Democrat and activist. As a loyal member of LULAC, MALDEF and West Side Lions Club for many years, he served in various positions. In addition, he was a proud member of the Puerto Rican Heritage Society. Known for his sense of humor and generous nature, he adored spending time with family, friends and relatives. Over the years, he often spent weekends relaxing at his ranch or hunting. He enjoyed boating and fishing off the Texas coast with friends. He especially took great pleasure in hiding Easter eggs with cash inside to the delight of his grandchildren.
He loved his desserts and was a huge SA Spurs fan. He loved music, singing and dancing. For the past few years, he would dine at Ernesto's Restaurant every Friday night to hear classic romantic songs. He especially loved mariachi music. His favorite thing was to sing "Las Mañanitas" to anyone celebrating a birthday, especially his family. At restaurants, he would look for a birthday celebration and march his walker over to sing. He loved hearing everyone clap when he was finished. And he touched the hearts of countless strangers.
He was preceded in death by wife, Pauline, parents, Clotilde Laracuente and Adolfo Maldonado; sister, Salome Leon, brother, Tomás, and son, Sergio "Bucky" Maldonado. Survived by: sons, Andres Jr., Jose Luis, Mark and wife, Teri, Michael and companion, Walter Teachout; daughters, Yvonne Vasquez and Milagros; 9 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be on Wed. Jan. 31 from 6-8PM with at rosary at 7PM at Mission Park Funeral Chapels North. Funeral Mass will be on Thurs. Feb. 1st at St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church at 9:30AM with interment following at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery.