Antonio Cavazos Jr.

Antonio Cavazos, Jr., went to be with the Lord on May 10, 2013. He left this world peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones, just as he always wished. Antonio was born on September 1, 1946. He was a lifelong resident of Laredo, Texas, and had great passion for the history and uniqueness of this city. He served in the US Army from 1967- 1970, and served a tour of duty in Vietnam as part of the First Infantry Division (Big Red One) from December 1967 to December 1968. Upon his honorable discharge from the Army, he returned home and helped his father establish the family business of Cavazos Air Freight. In 1978 he fulfilled his lifelong dream of becoming a police officer and joined the Laredo Police Department where he proudly served for over 29 years, retiring in 2008. During service with the Laredo Police Department, he served as a patrol officer, field training officer, and as an Internal Affairs/ background investigator. To describe this man in a few words would not serve him justice. While fighting a long courageous battle with various illnesses, he still managed to uplift the lives of those who were fortunate enough to cross his path, primarily his wife, children and grandchildren. He was an extraordinary man, amazing father, and even greater grandfather. Till his last breath, he remained the rock and protector of his family. His countless interests, profound spirituality, and adventurous life made him an exceptional conversationalist. He was a modern day renaissance man. His wisdom was deeply inspiring and his incredible influence on his family will be shared for many generations to come. This man was a true giver and took great pleasure of ensuring the happiness of others. On his weakest days he still managed to keep his unique sense of humor that will never be forgotten. Because of his tremendous devotion to his family they know the true meaning of love and have a deep sense of self-worth. His children and grandchildren will dedicate their lives ensuring that his legacy will live on. Antonio always lived by these words, “The choices we make dictate the life we lead.” These are the words his children will carry with them every day. He is preceded in death by his parents, Antonio and Berta Cavazos; his brothers: Carlos Z., Hector V., and Roberto Cavazos; and nephew, Carlos Z. Cavazos, Jr. He is survived by his wife, Maria Del Carmen Molina Cavazos; son, Antonio Cavazos III(Melissa); daughters, Delia Denise Cavazos DeLeon(Eric), Judith Veronica Cavazos, and Carmen Cavazos Rios “Baby”( Arturo); and his 10 grandchildren, Anissa, Nick, Natalia, Marky, Daleth, Jazdale, Gaby, Sammi, Baby Tony, and Arturito. He is also survived by his brothers, Rodolfo Cavazos, Jesse (Margarita) Cavazos, Jose Cavazos, and Julio (Maria) Cavazos; his sisters, Berta Adelina Cavazos and Juanita Imelda Cavazos; Brother-in-law, Jose V.Molina and Sister-in-law, Yolanda (Freddy) Mendez; also survived by aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends. A rosary will be recited on Tuesday, May 14, 2013 at 7:00 p.m. in the Hillside Funeral Home Chapel. A visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, May 15, 2013 at 9:15 a.m. from Hillside Funeral Home to San Agustin Cathedral. A mass will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at the family plot of the Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Military Honors will be provided by Fort Sam Houston Honor Guard and American Legion Post 59 Honor Guard. 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.