Hector C. Mata

He is preceded in death by his parents, Calixtro and Maria Mata, sister, Maria, and brother, Gusemindo Ojeda. He is survived by his lovely wife of 55 years, Mrs. Jacinta Mata, sons; Richard Huerta (Cindy), Hector Mata, Jr. (Rosie), Lawrence Mata, daughters; Laura Medellin (Joe), Corine Mata, Velia Mata, Rachel Perez (Greg), Patricia Ortiz (Jesse),sisters; Velia Gorman (Glen), Josephine, Blanca, Olivia (Paul) and numerous nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He left high school when his was 17 to enlist in the US Army. As a Specialist he served in an anti-aircraft heavy artillery unit stationed in Alaska and later returned to San Antonio in 1955. Hector was a dedicated custodian in various schools within the San Antonio Independent School District until his retirement in 1995. Hector was a adamant believer that a second effort is sometimes what it takes in life to achieve a goal and did he so when he earned his high school diploma in 1985. With his goal in acquiring his education in hand he modeled everyday his passion for education to his family. In retirement he spent quality time with his family, and pursued many of hobbies and interests. Amongst being a strong family man he held many talents. Hector was an avid gardener, artist, and mechanic. He loved to repair lawn mowers, listen to music, and his great passion to dance. He will be truly missed by all. The family wishes to thank the entire staff at VistaCare Hospice, especially social worker Mary Lameida, nurses, Dannielle, Charlene, Maria, Letty, Steve, and Anna Marie, and chaplains. Family also wishes to express their appreciation to Cancer Therapy & Research Center at UT Health Center for all their support especially Lupita Martinez and Dr. Alvarado and Dr. Benavides and nurse Nancy at University Hospital Clinic.Visitation will begin at 2:00 pm on Friday, July 30, 2010 at Funeraria Del Angel Roy Akers with a Rosary being recited at 7:00 pm that same evening. We will depart the funeral home at 8:30am on Saturday, July 31, 2010 for a 9:00 am Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Interment to follow at San Fernando Cemetery III.