Anthony M. Zapata

January 22, 1947- June 24, 2023

Anthony Morin Zapata, 76, passed away on June 24, 2023. He was born in Seguin, TX but resided in San Antonio, TX throughout his life. He is preceded in death by his father, Marshall Zapata and his mother, Carmen Zapata. Anthony married Rosa Maria Bernal in 1980 after meeting her at SANYO. They recently celebrated their 43rd anniversary. They have one daughter, Casey Alejandra Zapata (Angel Perez) one granddaughter, Alondra Renee Perez.

He is survived by his beloved siblings, Jesus Flores, Gilbert Flores, Mary Jane Sanchez, and Diana Jaramillo, and cousins and was also the proud uncle to various nieces, nephews, and godchildren.

Anthony attended John F. Kennedy High School but dropped out in his senior year to enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps. He entered military service on January 20, 1966 and completed his Basic training at the Marine Corps Recruit Training Center, Camp Pendelton located in San Diego, California. He was then assigned to the 27th Marines, Fourth Marine Division to await orders to Vietnam. His tour of duty in Vietnam was a year and 26 days. During that period, his outfit was involved in Operations’ Hastings (1967); which resulted in a successful campaign against enemy forces, and his unit was awarded the Presidential Unit Commendation.

Military Awards: Presidential Unit Citation Ribbon, Combat Action Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with one bronze star, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with 1960 device.

Anthony was honorably discharged from service on January 31, 1968 and returned to civilian life with personal goals to complete and receive his high school diploma which resulted in his graduation in 1969; and to pursue a college education. Thereafter, he attended San Antonio College, Santa Monica City College in California and ultimately graduated from the University of Los Angeles (UCLA) where in 1976, he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in history. After college he worked in his father’s auto repair business in the reselling of Volkswagons. They were affectionally known as the “Volkswagon Guys” of the neighborhood. After his father passed away he worked at Wello Wella Tax Service for 22 years.

Anthony was a charismatic guy who was always ready to help his neighbors, friends and family. His greatest joy was when at the age of 75 his beautiful daughter Casey made him a grandfather to his adored Alondra Renee. His life of service extended into the community. He loved to help out the “Golden Girls” at Fuerza Unida with their Food Bank distribution. He would also help out at the church to assist in cleaning the yards and maintaining the grounds. He loved putting his handyman skills to the test after being called by the Principal and Coach from St. John Berchman’s School to help out in repairs needed in the school. Neighbors and friends were witness to his love of animals as they often saw him with his beloved faithful companion, Midnite. His passion for history was a theme he cultivated throughout his life. He was ready to discuss sections of the bible or Native American history with anyone who would listen. One of his last conversations while in the hospital was with the chaplain discussing the betrayal of Jesus by the disciple Judas. Last fall Anthony was presented the Quilt of Valor, which symbolizes comforting and healing to our military servicemen at the Edgewood District Vietnam Veterans monthly meeting. This was an honor he humbly accepted because of his love of country and God.

Anthony will be laid to rest at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery to join his comrades in arms. In lieu of flowers the family asks that you consider a donation to your favorite charity in his name. Our beloved husband, father, friend, uncle, cousin, godfather has gone home to the Lord and will be missed. May the Lord hold him in the palm of his hand and give him everlasting life. Semper Fi.