Tomas Bazaldua Malacara

Tomas Bazaldua Malacara entered into eternal rest surrounded by the love of his family. He was born in Linares, Nuevo León, Mexico to Jose Angel Bazaldua and Gregoria Malacara and was the eldest of seven children.

From a young age, Tomas learned the value of hard work and responsibility. As a child, he worked alongside his father helping to support their family. In his early years as a young man, Tomas entered the United States through the Bracero Program where he worked in the farmlands of South Texas, dedicating himself to honest labor and the pursuit of a better life.

On March 7, 1959, Tomas married the love of his life, Lucila Martinez, beginning a beautiful journey that would span 67 wonderful years of marriage. Together they built a loving home and raised their children: Nora Margarita Bazaldua Sanchez; Leticia Bazaldua Anciso (Domingo); Nancy Bazaldua Plata (David II); and Nereyda Bazaldua Robledo (Juan) and their beloved son, Ruben Bazaldua, who passed away at the young age of 24.

Tomas was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved son, Ruben Bazaldua; and four siblings, Juana B. Davila, Angelita B. Guerrero, Luis Bazaldua and Baldemar Bazaldua.

He was a proud and devoted grandfather to nine grandchildren: Andrew Anselmo Sanchez, Samantha Eileen Sanchez, Nicholas Matthew Sanchez, Thomas Lee Anciso, Jacob Ruben Anciso, Victoria Denise Ramos, Adelynn Lucille Ramos, David Alexander Plata, and Marcus Isaiah Plata.

His legacy continues through his five great-grandchildren: Grace Evelyn Sanchez, Sebastian Noah Anciso, Roel Yebra III, Ryan Yebra, and Jenna Neci Yebra.

Tomas is also survived by two siblings, David Bazaldua and Margarita Bazaldua, along with numerous extended family members and friends who cherished him.

Later in life, Tomas worked for a manufacturing company where he mastered the skill of welding, a craft that became his lifelong profession until his retirement in the year 2000. Known for his strong work ethic and dedication, he took great pride in providing for his family.

Outside of work, Tomas was a true lover of nature. He enjoyed fishing with family and friends, creating many treasured memories along the water. He also shared a love of gardening with his wife, and together they took pride in maintaining one of the best kept yards in their neighborhood.

Above all, Tomas was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His family was the center of his life, and the love he gave will continue to live on through them.

Visitation will begin Tuesday, March 10, 2026 from 3:00 PM until 9:00 PM and a rosary will be prayed at 7:00 PM. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at the Rudy Garza Funeral Home at 10:00 AM with Brother Hoss Alvarez officiating, burial will follow at Restlawn Cemetery.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered in the hearts of those who loved him.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staff of APC Home Health, Casa Mia Hospice Care, and Harlingen Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for the compassionate care and kindness shown to Tomas during his time of need.