Rosendo E. Ancira

Rosendo Elizondo Ancira Rosendo Elizondo Ancira went to be with the Lord on January 20, 2013 peacefully surrounded by his devoted family who cared for and loved him so very much. And while he knew he was leaving many loved ones behind, he was joyful that he would be reunited with his parents. Rosendo, affectionately known to many as "Chendo", was a wonderful son, a great husband, a devoted father and a good friend. He was born and raised in Laredo, Texas where he graduated from Martin High School in 1951. He continued with his education and graduated from Texas A&M with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1958 after serving in the US Army. He received an MBA from Kingsville A&I University in 1965. He started his career as a teacher at L.J. Christen Junior High teaching Math and continued working for the Laredo Independent School District until he retired in 1999. His interest and devotion to students young and old was unwavering. He believed that everyone should have the opportunity to receive an education. Chendo joyfully volunteered his time in many professional and social organizations throughout his life. He was an active member of the Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church where he considered it a privilege to serve God and the church. He was also very active with the Knights of Columbus chapter and obtained the high honor of Grand Knight. His favorite pastimes were spending time with family and friends at his 'bar' at home, listening to romantic music, dancing, traveling, and walking on the beach. He had a love for Spanish Poetry, wine, and the Arts. He also was blessed to travel with Irma throughout Europe, Mexico, and the United States. Rosendo is preceded in death by his parents, Mr. Rosendo G. Ancira and Mrs. Concepcion Elizondo Ancira. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, the Love of his Life, Irma Valle Ancira; children, Rosendo (Laura) Ancira III, Joann A. Petersen, and Federico E. Ancira; grandchildren, David Bautista, Timothy M. Petersen and Roberto R. Ancira. He is also survived by his sister, Conchita Ancira (William) Lawson; his brother, Raul Ancira; brothers and sisters-in-law, Enrique Valle, Elisa (Horacio†)De Leon, Aurora (Cristobal) Enriquez, Isauro Valle, Andres (Teresa) Valle and numerous nieces, nephews, loving family members and many friends. A rosary will be recited on Wednesday, January 23, 2013 at 7:00 p.m. in the Hillside Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00p.m. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, January 24, 2013 at 10:00 a.m. from Hillside Funeral Home to Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. with Msgr. Stanley A. Sliwiak officiating. Services will conclude at the church. Pallbearers will be: Rosendo Ancira III, Federico E. Ancira, Raoul Ancira, Timothy M. Petersen, Roberto R. Ancira, Dr. Carlos Perez, Dr. Louis Wilson and Blas Martinez Jr. Honorary Pallbearers will be: Abe Wilson, Dr. William Lawson, Dr. Sigifredo Perez, John Daves, Roberto Trevino, J.D. Wendeborn, Manuel Escamilla, Hector Farias Jr., Howard Ruleman, David Bautista, Horacio De Leon and Gerardo Enriquez. The Ancira family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Marites "Tess" Leonard, his caring and loving caregiver, who affectionately developed a close bond with Rosendo and his family. The family is also grateful to the representatives from VITAS of San Antonio, who provided invaluable support and care. If you would like to sign the guestbook or send private condolences, you may do so at www.hillsidefuneral.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Hillside Funeral Home, 310 Hillside Road.