Mario Morales Siller

Mario Morales Siller was born on September 8, 1941, in Pearsall, Texas, the son of Jose Cavazos Siller and Josefa Morales Siller. He went to be with the Lord on Sunday, April 28, 2024, surrounded by his family at the Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans' Hospital in San Antonio, Texas.

Mario's journey in the U.S. Army began in November 1966. He underwent Basic Training and further specialized as an Armor Intelligence Specialist. His deployment to the Republic of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War saw him engage in combat operations against North Vietnamese Army regulars in the Kontum mountains. Mario was a proud C Troop, 1st Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, and 4th Infantry Division member. His dedication was recognized with promotions, including Specialist 4, in March 1968. His service was adorned with several decorations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, and the Purple Heart. He was honorably discharged in 1972, leaving a legacy of bravery and commitment.

On October 21, 1971, Mario married Angelina "Angie" Nieto Siller. He was a devoted and loving husband to her for over fifty-two years. Mario's most significant legacy is the family he leaves behind, especially his beloved wife, Angie, and their four children: Rosie, Mario Jr., Michael, and Belinda. Mario adored his grandchildren and looked forward to seeing them throughout the year, especially during special holidays, and celebrating their life achievements as they grew up.

Mario's love for his community was evident in his Frio County Commissioner Precinct 1 service from 1992 to 1996. He worked tirelessly and effectively with the Frio County Judge, leaving a lasting impact on the community. Mario's ability to connect with and unite people was a testament to his charismatic personality. His friends and family remember him for his warm and welcoming nature, which made everyone feel valued and included.

On April 18, 2024, Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller visited Mario at the Audie L. Murphy Community Living Center. Mario considered it one of his greatest honors to be visited by the Archbishop. He had been praying to God all his life, and though he felt alone, he now knew that God had been with him all along. To receive the last sacrament of Anointing of the Sick from the Archbishop was a humbling experience for Mario, and it brought peace to his heart and spirit.

Mario Siller was preceded in death by his parents, Jose Cavazos Siller and Josefa Morales Siller, his brothers, Jose M. Siller, Juan M. Siller, Ruben M. Siller, and sister, Hermenia M. Siller. Carrying on his memory are his beloved wife of fifty-two years, Angelina "Angie" Nieto Siller," his daughter and son-in-law, Rosie Siller and Ernest Vasquez (Grandchildren: Madison Schultz and Bryson Schultz); his son and daughter-in-law, Mario Jr. and Roseann Siller (Grandchild: Jose R. Garcia); his son, Michael N. Siller (Granddaughters: Evelyn Siller and Victoria Siller); his daughter and son-in-law, Belinda N. Siller and Richard Yokoi (Grandsons: Drew Yokoi and Ian Yokoi); his honorary daughter, Julie Nieto Urrutia; his sisters, Carolina Carter, Maria M. Siller, Esperanza Kavanagh, and his brothers, Abel M. Siller, Santiago M. Siller, and Filiberto M. Siller. He also had numerous nieces and nephews whom he loved so much.

The family expresses their gratitude to the many dedicated medical staff who provided exceptional care at the Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans' Hospital and Community Living Center in San Antonio, Texas, and to the devoted family and friends who were always there during Mario's time of need.

Rosary will be held on Friday, May 3, 2024, at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church starting at 9am. Funeral mass will be celebrated right after at 10am. Interment will follow to the Veterans of Foreign War Cemetery (VFW) with Army military honors.

To view the slide show, please clink on the following link:

https://youtu.be/DF4v1C81CFI?si=acJlrIHq2gg3eval