Candelario “Sam” De La Garza Sr., age 97, passed away peacefully at home on May 13, 2025, in Victoria, Texas. He was born on November 20, 1927, in McFadden, Texas, to the late Rafael De La Garza and Janie O’Reilly.

Candelario proudly served his country in the United States Army as Army Air Force during World War II. After his military service, he worked as a dedicated truck driver until his retirement in 1996.

In September of 1949, he eloped with the love of his life, Hermida Rodriguez, beginning a marriage that would span over seven decades. Together, they built a large and loving family, grounded in faith and shared traditions. As a devoted member of Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church for over 50 years, Candelario’s faith was a cornerstone of his life.

He enjoyed the simple pleasures — playing scratch-offs, going to Palace Bingo and Coushatta, and cheering on his beloved Houston Astros. Family always came first, and he especially cherished time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Candelario is preceded in death by his parents, children Candelario De La Garza Jr., and Katherine De La Garza, daughter-in-law Dorothy De La Garza, siblings Rafael De La Garza Jr., Joe De La Garza, and Mary Lucy Adams, grandchildren Theresa De La Garza, John De La Garza, and Rocky Santos and great grandchild, Christan De La Garza.

He is survived by his beloved wife of over 75 years, Hermida De La Garza; children Christina (Rolando) Hinojosa, Robert De La Garza, Victor De La Garza, Belinda (Manuel) Santos; daughter-in-law Sue De La Garza; siblings Johnny De La Garza, Beatrice Nava; sister-in-law Ramona De La Garza; 9 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be Rene Olguin, Antonio Hinojosa, Joseph De La Garza, Michael De La Garza, Darrion De La Garza, and David Santos.

A special thank you to Anna Gomez for her continued loving care and support.

Services will be held on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church in Victoria. Visitation begins at 8:00 a.m., followed by the rosary at 8:15 a.m., and Mass at 9:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery in Victoria, Texas. The arrangements are entrusted to Grace Funeral Home.

Candelario’s legacy of love, faith, and devotion to family will live on in all who knew and loved him.