Richard Cervantes

Richard Rendon Cervantes, known affectionately as "El Gallo", passed away on May 12, 2024 in San Antonio, Texas. He was born on May 2, 1947, to Jesse and Elvira Cervantes. Sadly, Richard was preceded in death by his parents Jesse and Elvira Cervantes, his Son Randy Richard Cervantes, Siblings Rosie, Jesse Jr., Lee, Antonio, Delia and great grandson Jude. His memory will be forever held in the hearts by his surviving family; his Wife Carmel, his Children: Belinda Cervantes (Joe Garcia), Richard Jr.(Roxanne) Cervantes, Stephanie (Trent) Freeman, Russell Cervantes (Stephanie) and Jennifer (Rob) Martinez; His 18 Grandchildren and 11 Great-grandchildren. His Brothers Ray (Margaret) Cervantes, Ernest (Sylvia) Cervantes and many Nieces & Nephews. Richard attended vocational classes at Fox Tech High School, where he learned many trades, from carpentry to welding. He worked for years as a welder and as a painting contractor, he was a master of all trades. There was nothing he could not do, he knew the ruler like the back of his hand. He referred to this gift as his third eye; he had the ability to see the completed work with precise accuracy. When work was completed he often went out with friends at his favorite spots, Hi Slope Ice House, ParkAir, Ringside just to name of few. He joined a Pool league where his gift for precision brought home many awards & Trophies. Richard loved helping people especially by cooking for benefits, he donated his time & money to help whomever he could. In 1966, Richard married his beloved wife of 58 years Carmel Olvera, together they raised 5 children. Richard was a devoted family man who loved gathering on the weekend to sit out back and enjoy life to the fullest. Richard's hobbies include woodwork, he was MacGiyver when it came to his unique craftmanship, he restored several churches in nearby communities. He loved restoring antique and classic cars. He was a member of the Street Rod Association for years. Participated in numerous car shows where he'd displayed with great pride his 1948 Sedan Delivery (Oldies but Goodies) and his 1931 Chevrolet Sedan known by many throughout his Southside neighborhood. It was no surprise that when he brought home The Mayors Choice Award, selected by former Mayor Henry Cisneros, that his hard work and countless hours paid off. Richard also loved Hunting in all seasons he often spoke of the things he heard late at night in the deer blind, his stories were all so interesting and somehow ended in laughter. He also loved fishing whether it was deep sea or just a simple pond he was never "salt" like his Uncle Beaver would say. Richard was very artistic loved painting pictures and loved to entertain and make everyone laugh, his charisma pulled the crowd near, always the life of the party. His adlib lines were off the charts; We have yet to find his match. Heaven is definitely filled with laughter. We will miss those Green Eyes, he spoke with the utmost pride of his Spanish Heritage and how his eye color was a gift from his ancestors. He is a direct descendant of the first founding 16 families of San Antonio from The Canary Islands 1731. Sons of the Republic of Texas and The Great Spanish writer Miguel de Cervantes. Special Thanks goes out to Father Boleslaw (Bill)Zadora, from Annunciation of the Blessed Virgen Mary Church in St. Hedwigs. Richard restored this church several years ago and considered Father Bill as part of his family.