Enrique Naranjo Garcia

Enrique Zachariahs Naranjo gave up his last breath Saturday, January 20th of 2024 in the same fashion he lived life, with quiet dignity, surrounded by his loving family. “Pop”, as he was affectionately called by those closest to him, was an unwavering compass of life. “Pop” was born to parents, Roberto Naranjo and Eva Garcia on November 5th 1935. He was the youngest of siblings, Eva, Joaquin, Blanca, and Roberto, and, after the loss of his mother, he became an older brother to his half-sisters Rosamelia and Sara.

At the age of 17, his aunt and uncle, Angelica and Manuel Cortez, opened their home to Pop where he would spend his formative years and grow an enriching relationship with his cousins. His cousins, Angie, Manuel and Memo, would become more like a sister and brothers. Those early years were filled with opportunities to learn the importance of hard work, an area that would go on to showcase Pop’s commitment to diligence and taking pride in all that he did. At the age of 17, he would discover the beauty that stole his heart from the first glance. Bertha L. Naranjo Guajardo would go on to become his wife and the mother of his children. She preceded him in death but he treasured and adored her for 45 years until her last day on earth and kept her memory alive for the rest of his life.

He is survived by his sister Blanca Rosa; his children Jesus Javier Naranjo (Judy), Enrique Naranjo Jr., Cora A. Rodriguez (Walter), Robert Naranjo (Erica); and his grandchildren, Daniel A. Naranjo (Andrea), Amanda M. Naranjo, Joshua M. Rodriguez, Sophia B. Rodriguez, Zachary Rodriguez, Brendan I. Gonzalez, Olivia D. Naranjo, and Mateo E. Naranjo, who affectionately called him “Tata” and “Umpa”. All of whom shared in his passion for travelling, auto mechanics, classic and performance cars, taking scenic drives and spending time with loved ones.

He enjoyed watching boxing and had an affinity for business and accounting. The latter would be the source of a long and reputable career – 35 years at PanTex Corp., where he held the position of V.P. before leaving to take on the role of comptroller of the Laredo Country Club. He then went on to use his expertise as comptroller of CorTrans Logistics, LLC, out of Georgia, an international logistics company founded by his cousin, William Cortez. He also encouraged entrepreneurship within the family through various family businesses. His legacy will live on through the “true north” manner in which he lead his family. Up until his last days, he was the voice of reason, always steady, leading with an encouragement, honesty and humility.

As we carry his memory forward, we continue to hear of the lasting impact he made in so many lives and there is no doubt that the ripples of his mentorship and generosity will continue to shape the future of so many of us. Enrique Zacharias Naranjo will be greatly missed but never forgotten and we rejoice in the fact that he is once again reunited with his bride and lifelong love. Rest in Peace, Pop.

A visitation for Enrique will be held Sunday, January 28, 2024 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Sunset North Funeral Home, 910 North Loop 1604 East, San Antonio, TX 78232 with a family eulogy at 6:30 PM and a vigil and rosary at 7:00 PM. A funeral mass will occur Monday, January 29, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 8134 Blanco Rd, San Antonio, TX 78216.

Serving as pallbearers are Jesus J. Naranjo, Henry Naranjo Jr., Robert Naranjo, Daniel A. Naranjo, Joshua M. Rodriguez and Brendan I. Rodriguez.