Frank G. Cantu Jr., age 75, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 30, 2024, surrounded by the warmth and love of his cherished family. Born on November 2, 1949, in Memphis, Texas, Frank was the treasured son of Frank T. Cantu and Ramona Gutierrez.

Frank grew up in Sinton, Texas, where he graduated high school. In 1974, Frank married the love of his life, Mary Montez, and shortly thereafter, they moved to her hometown of Floresville, Texas, where they built a beautiful life together. This month, they would have celebrated 51 years of marriage. Frank's kind heart and natural ability to connect with people endeared him to everyone he met; he never met a stranger and loved striking up conversations with all he encountered.

Frank retired from City Public Service after 25 years of devoted service and enjoyed 14 years of retirement filled with family, friends, and passions that brought him joy.

Frank was an avid sports enthusiast and devoted much of his time to coaching Little League baseball for over 20 years. His love for the game extended beyond the field, as he mentored countless young players, instilling not only athletic skills but also values of teamwork and perseverance. A diehard fan of the New York Yankees and the Dallas Cowboys, Frank rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on his favorite teams.

Known affectionately as "The Jogger" by locals, Frank was a familiar sight along Highway 97 during his running years and later along Highway 181 as he took up walking. He cherished his weekly golf outings with friends and monthly gatherings with his "Retired Buddies."

Frank had a deep passion for the holidays, especially Christmas. He took great pride in decorating his yard, and his handmade Christmas display of the Wilson County Courthouse was recently featured in the Wilson County News—a recognition that brought him immense joy.

Frank also loved dancing to Tejano music, and his favorite songs included La Tumba by Roberto Pulido and Mi Pueblito by Ruben Naranjo. Whether on the dance floor or in his yard, Frank's zest for life was infectious.

Frank is preceded in death by his parents, Frank T. Cantu and Ramona Gutierrez, as well as his in-laws, Adelfina (Herrera) Montez and Santiago Montez.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories with his wife, Mary, and their children, Frank Rene Cantu and Deborah Medina (Armando). Frank was a proud grandfather to Brandon Cantu, Alycia Plata (Chance Fikes), Christopher Cantu, Adrianna Plata (Alejandro Ramirez), and Andrew Medina. He is also survived by his siblings, Guadalupe C. Chapa (Robert), Alice C. Bernal (Steve), and Robert Cantu (Deborah), as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Frank's life on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Floresville, Texas. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by a Rosary at 10:30 a.m. and Mass at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery, with a reception to follow at the Sacred Heart Parish Hall.

Frank G. Cantu Jr. will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his generous spirit, and the countless lives he touched. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him