David R. Cortez

Commissioner David R. Cortez at the age of 82 entered eternal rest on December 12, 2016. He was surrounded by his loving family. Commissioner David R. Cortez was born in New Gulf, TX. During the 1950's the family moved to Laredo, TX. As a young 18-year-old businessman, he started operating a trading post, where he bought and sold used furniture. Mr. Cortez joined the United States Army and was honorably discharged upon completing his tour of duty. After his military service in the Army, David began a career at Liggett and Myers. For 37 years, he traveled throughout South Texas as a sales representative. His hard work and dedication earned him outstanding representative of the year for the entire country. David enjoyed serving his community. Mr. Cortez was elected to the Laredo City Council. He served for 8 years and was Mayor Pro Tem for 4 years. He successfully ran for the Webb County Commissioners Court Pct. 4 and served for 6 years. David was a very active member of the Laredo Evening Lion’s Club and served as president, and as Director of Texas Eye Bank. During those years, the Lion’s Club sponsored a banquet for local football players. For 15 years, David chaired the Evening Lion's Laredo All City Football banquet. As the chairman, David was proud to bring Roger Staubach as their guest speaker for all Laredo High School football players. Twice he was elected zone chairman and deputy district governor. David Cortez also served as a director of Falcon National Bank during its early years. David never retired, he continued as an active businessman. He owned and managed the Chesterfield and Margaret Lane Apartments for 30 years. David’s love for politics never ceased. On any given election David, could be seen standing on corners holding signs for local, and even presidential elections. His passion for the political arena went beyond the politician. David will always be remembered for his ability to make people feel warm and welcome. He had a special way of lighting up light a room. Mr. Cortez was an excellent communicator and touched the heart of anybody that crossed his path. He always had a big, genuine smile on his face. Those who knew him knew of his passion for golf. David started as a caddy at the age of 12 in New Gulf, TX and was an avid golfer for 50 years. He was a very familiar face at local golf courses. David always looked forward to the annual round of Father’s Day golf with his wife, children, and grandchildren. His wife, children, and grandchildren were his pride and joy. Commissioner David Cortez is survived by his wife of 62 years Margarita “Margie" S. Cortez and his children David Cortez Jr.(Maribel), Cindy Cortez Benavides (Nick), Hector Cortez, and Rene Cortez (Teresa). Also, David is survived by his grandchildren, Normandy Porter, Franz Brunner III, Margret Brunner, David III, Greg, Mandalay, Theresa, Cynthia, Rene, and Yuri Cortez. Additionally, he is survived by 12 great grandchildren. Mr. Cortez is survived by his three sisters, Helen Villegas, Aurora Tatro, Aminta Kittell and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Santana and Maria Ignacia Cortez, seven brothers and three sisters. Visitation will be held at Hillside Funeral Home Thursday, December 15, 2016, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. A rosary will be recited at 7:00 PM. A funeral service will be held on Friday, December 16, 2016 at 8:30 a.m. from Hillside Funeral Home Chapel to San Martin de Porres Catholic Church. A mass will be celebrated at 9:00 a.m. A funeral procession will follow to the City of Laredo Cemetery. 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.