With sadness in our hearts, we announce the passing away of Antonio Garcia Zapata (Tony), age 75, of Pasadena, Texas on Thursday, July 24, 2026.  Born on September 15, 1950, in Sinton, Texas to Antonio Gonzales Zapata and Ignacia Garcia. 

Antonio will be laid to rest on Thursday, August 6, 2026 at            1:30 p.m. at The Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Houston, Texas.

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​On April 25, 1969, he answered the government’s call, enlisting in the United States Army.  He was honorably discharged on

March 28, 1971 after having served in Vietnam.  He enlisted again on May 16, 1974 serving in the 82nd Airborne Division 508th Infantry Regiment; honorably discharged on February 6, 1978, after sustaining a parachute accident. 

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He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Parachutist Badge, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry w/Palm.  He was proud to have served his country.  His known and constant motivational statement was:  "Airborne All the way!"

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He was preceded in death by his parents, Antonio and Ignacia Zapata.  He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Isabela Govea, his son, Antonio Govea Zapata (Kris), daughters, Elisabet Cortinas and Sandra Cuellar, grandchildren: Jon Antonio Brewster, Elena Cuellar, Mara Isabela Cortinas, Julian Alexander Zapata, Colette Elizabeth Zapata and Alexander Martinez and a sister, Martha Rivas (Domingo).

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May he rest in peace.

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