Mr . U Uriegas

"Mr U" Santos Uriegas beloved husband, father and mentor to many departed this life on Saturday, September 20, 2025. He is survived by his wife Josie, who has been the love of his life for 71 years as well as his children; Rick, Margo, Joel, Ledro and Tobias. He was preceded in death by his parents Isabel and Paula Uriegas.

From humble beginnings as a carpenter he was one of several who provided labor and skill in building what is now Hemisfair Tower. "Mr U" as he was known was the founding organizer of the Loma Park Little League Association and organizer of the 1st Loma Park Parade which included Congressman Henry B. Gonzales. At the time it was unheard of for a Hispanic politician to be involved in neighborhood events.

"Mr U's" name became synonymous with securing venues for "garage bands" whose members were classmates of the Uriegas children. It was then that he developed his passion for the entertainment industry. In the 60's as Wonderland Mall was near completion "Mr U" was contacted about entertainment for the opening ceremonies. One of the entertainers he was able to secure to perform was an unknown by the name of Juan Gabriel. Opening day was a success and from this point "Mr U" (through word of mouth) became the "go to" person for entertainment.

His life-long friend (Nick Pena) was President of the Market Square Association and the two began brainstorming on how to bring recognition to the Market and attract the Tejano music industry. Many artists who began at Market Square went on to become the founding fathers of the Tejano Music Awards. Many (of those artists) voiced they owed their perseverance to "Mr U" who always encouraged them to "do their best and believe in themselves".

"Mr U" was also an entrepreneur, creating "Margo's Bridal Service". He became the "one-stop shop" for weddings and debuts. He provided services such as catering, church and hall decorations, photography, limousines, mariachis and band bookings.

In his retirement, he focused and founded the family non-profit "AUEDA" (Action United for Entertainers & Diverse Artists). The organization originated as a result of "Mr U's" grandson Paul Uriegas (son of Ledro Uriegas, musical entertainer) being diagnosed with a childhood cancer that was not treatable. The focus of the organization is to provide financial assistance and scholarships to members of the entertainment industry who find themselves in crisis. "AUEDA" is the 1st organization to represent the Westside of San Antonio as part of the Fiesta Commission thus leading to the creation of "Pinatas in the Barrio" (a Westside sanctioned Fiesta event).

"Mr U" became "Pinatas in the Barrio's" 1st Senior King and was privileged to participate in both parades for a number of years. He relished this role as founder and king.

To those who knew him personally "Mr U" was described as "dapper" and "debonair"; always appropriately and intricately attired whether it be for the season or holiday. Even wearing his "treasured" Christmas suit to emcee at "Pinatas in the Barrio".

Although "Mr U" was a strict disciplinarian; he was an extremely loving and devoted father. Instilling traditional family values to his children he was able to see them become productive individuals. His life was one driven by a desire to help those in need.

"Mr U" is survived by his wife Josie, his children and spouses: Rick, Margo, Joel (Darlene), Ledro (Irma) and Tobias. Grandchildren: Lisa Marie, Destinee, Ledro Jr., Paul, Jeztic and John Santos. Great-grandchildren: Daylon, Layla, Brooklynn, Juliet and Phoenix.

In lieu of flowers please donate to: "AUEDA" 119 Paramount Ave. San Antonio, Texas 78228

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