Saturnino Mares, prominent World War II Veteran, drifted off this mortal loop on May 10, 2021 at 10:05 pm in his home in San Benito, Texas. He was 102 years old and the recipient of both the silver and bronze stars, and a purple heart with oak leaf. Soft-spoken and modest, Saturnino was a man of few words but when he spoke everyone listened. A simple man that exuded life and happiness, to had met him was to know true kindness, to have known him was to know inspiration, and to have laughed with him was to know the warmth of the sun. Beyond his declared medals and triumphs his greatest attainment if you would have asked him would be his family. He is preceded in death by his parents Ramon Mares and Clara Morales Mares, and 9 siblings. Saturnino is relinked with his childhood sweetheart of 58 years Josefina Mares, and his sons Rolando and Rene. He is survived by his daughter Rosaena Mares and sons Ramiro Mares and Eric Mares, 11 grandchildren, and 22 great grandchildren. Saturnino Mares, Army black and yellow through and through always played the part of a loyal soldier and true fighter. In the depth of spring, he ultimately kneeled and finally rested. “I was that which others did not want to be. I went where others feared to go, and did what others failed to do. I asked nothing from those who gave nothing, and reluctantly accepted the thought of eternal loneliness...should I fail. I have seen the face of terror; felt the stinging cold of fear; and enjoyed the sweet taste of a moment's love. I have cried, pained, and hoped...but most of all, I have lived times others would say were best forgotten. At least someday I will be able to say that I was proud of what I was...a soldier.” - George L. Skypeck. The Mares family would like to send a heartfelt thank you to the VA Home Based Primary Care Staff and his providers Nelida Perez, Teresa Williams, and Irma Rodriguez for the passionate and devoted care of Saturnino Mares. Visitation will be held on Monday, May 17, 2021 at Thomae-Garza Funeral Home in San Benito, Texas from 5:00 p.m. to 9 p.m. with a rosary to be recited at 7:00 p.m. A chapel service will be held Tuesday May 18, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at Thomae-Garza Funeral Home with interment to follow at Mont Meta Memorial Park where Sgt. Saturnino Mares will be laid to rest. All individuals are encouraged to social distance and wear face covers or masks. You may sign the online guestbook and send words of comfort, flowers, or sympathy cards to the family of Saturnino Mares 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.