Obituary of Capt. Aurelio Mora USMC (Retired)

CAPT AURELIO MORA, USMC (RET.), 86, has left this earth to be with his heavenly Father and join his beloved daughter, Melissa Mora, in heaven. Also awaiting his arrival were his parents, Guillermo and Maria C. Sanchez; sisters, Carmen Gonzalez and Wilmira "Millie" Jasso; brothers Frank Sanchez and Wilberto C. Sanchez who was KIA while serving his country in Vietnam. Born September 25, 1929 in Harlingen, Texas, he attended Harlingen Schools and played a variety of sports. His military career began October 4th, 1946 when he left high school early to enlist in the United States Marine Corps and serve his country during World Word II. He continued to serve during the Korean Conflict and two tours in the Vietnam War. While fighting in Vietnam he received field commissions, branding him a true 'Mustang'. He earned numerous medals and commendations, including two Silver Stars, a Purple Heart, The Marine Corps Commendation Medal for Valor and a Presidential Unit Citation. He retired June 30th 1971 having served with the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Marine Divisions. During his service he and his family were based in Camp Pendleton, California; Bremerton, Washington; Camp Lejeune, North Carolina and Subic Bay (Cubi Point), Philippines. After his retirement he continued his education at Texas Southmost College and enjoyed a second career as a Loan Officer with 1st National Bank and Interfirst Bank in Harlingen. He was raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason of the San Benito Masonic Lodge. As a Shriner, he volunteered to help at local hospitals. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Ester Gonzales Mora; daughters Anna Mora-Meza (Albert), Rebecca Hunter, son Aurelio Mora III and his wife Elda Almarez Mora (our other sister and daddy's other daughter). Grandpa, Gpa, Gramps was very loved by his Scooby Doo's (grandchildren) Bg (Michael) Hunter Bennett, AJ Mora IV, Barry Hunter, Skyler Mora, Alyssa Meza, Andrew Meza and Morgan Mora. He is also survived by four very young great-grandchildren, Christopher Skyler Mora, Penelope Melissa Mora, Stephen Hunter Bennett, Isabella Melissa Mora. Baby Sky (the oldest great grandchild, age 3) always took care of his PaPo, sitting next to him during meals, holding his hand, pulling his PaPo along while walking, and being sure his PaPo was always watching his antics. Their tender relationship made our hearts smile. He is also survived by his sisters Wilhelmina Barrera and Wilda (Albert) Cantu, brother Guillermo "Coy" Sanchez and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Our husband, father, grandfather, and great-grand father will be greatly missed by all of us. He was a strong, good, unassuming, never complaining, humble, brave yet gentle hearted and generous man. We love you. His earthly body will be laid to rest, Saturday September 17th, beside his youngest daughter, Melissa, at Mont-Meta Memorial Park in San Benito. Funeral arrangements were handled by Thomae-Garza Funeral Home in San Benito. Pastor Robert Rodriquez led the service. Pallbearers included his son, Aurelio; grandsons AJ, Barry, Skyler, Andrew, and Morgan; nephews Lino and Eduardo Cantu. Honorary pallbearers were honorary grand-daughter Susie Gonzalez and niece Yvette Barrera. Graveside Military honors were bestowed by the United States Marine Corps Funeral Detail and VFW Post # 2035 of Brownsville, Texas with a 21 gun salute, and ceremonial folding of the American flag given to his wife. The service ended with the bugler playing 'Taps'. He loved his Holy Father, his country, his family. You may sign the online guestbook and send words of comfort, flowers, or sympathy cards to the family of Aurelio Mora at: www.thomaegarza.com. Funeral arrangements entrusted to the care of Thomae-Garza Funeral Directors and Crematorium, 395 S. Sam Houston, San Benito, Texas, (956) 399-1331.