Samuel Rivas Orozco Jr.'s Obituary
Samuel Orozco, Jr. was born on Wednesday, May 20, 1953, and was called home on Friday, June 13, 2025. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 48 years, Josefina “Josie” Orozco; his sons, Samuel Orozco III (Baby Sam) and Mark Anthony Orozco; his parents, Samuel Orozco Sr. and Gloria Rivas Vela; his in-laws, Felipe and Santitas Luna; his brother, Chuy; and his brother-in-law, Chito.
He is lovingly survived by his daughters, Nicole Orozco and Earlene Moreno; grandsons, Evan and Eli Moreno; sisters, Olga Duran, Minnie Martinez, Maria Herrera, and Sylvia Gonzalez; brothers, Richard and Robert Orozco; as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, and countless friends made throughout his life.
A proud graduate of Sidney Lanier High School, Sam learned the automotive trade at “the pride of the West Side.” His skills led him to a career with the San Antonio Transit Company, which later became VIA Metropolitan Transit. Sam worked there for 38 years, forming lifelong friendships along the way, and retired in 2011.
It was during a night out dancing that he met the love of his life, Josie. They married in 1976 and raised three beautiful children: Baby Sam, Markie, and Nicole. Later, the family joyfully welcomed Earlene and Evan into their lives, and in 2014, Eli completed their circle.
Sam was a devoted son, husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. A strong and selfless provider, he always made sure his loved ones were cared for. He found joy in barbecuing for family and friends, fishing in Port Aransas, and proudly supporting his daughters, grandsons, nieces, and nephews in all their adventures. With a natural sense of humor and a heart full of love, Sam had a way of making people laugh and feel at home.
His unconditional love, warm spirit, and steady presence will be deeply missed. We take comfort in knowing he is now reunited with Josie and their sons, healthy and whole again, dancing together on the streets of gold.
We love you, Daddy, Grandpa, Manito, Uncle Sam. Until we meet again.
Service Information:
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at Palm Heights Mortuary from 4pm until 8pm with the Holy Rosary to begin at 6pm.
Funeral staff will welcome family and friends at 8am on Thursday, June 26, 2025, and will depart at 10am for a 10:30am Funeral Mass at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church at 1321 El Paso, San Antonio, TX 78207 followed by interment at First Memorial Burial Park at 20567 State Highway 16, Von Ormy, TX
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