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Guadalupe "Gus” Arangua December 12, 1943 – October 21, 2024 “Blessed here, another day,” Gus would often reply when asked how he was doing. And truly, Gus lived each day as a blessing. Every moment was an opportunity to love his family, share a kind word, or offer a hearty laugh. While Parkinson’s disease made those joyful moments less frequent in the later years, Gus never wavered from his gracious and hopeful view of the world. A hopeless romantic at heart, he wooed his beloved wife, Ruby, with poetry and flowers, and their love endured until his final breath. Gus passed away peacefully on October 21, 2024, at 6:49 a.m., with Ruby steadfastly by his side. Their love story spanned 55 years—years filled with travel, laughter, dance, and deep companionship. Through sickness and health, richer or poorer, they faced life’s challenges together, always united in their love and friendship. Born in San Antonio, Texas, on December 12, 1943, Gus arrived on the Feast Day of La Virgen de Guadalupe. His parents, Gilbert and Dolores Arangua, were so moved by their winter blessing that they named him after the Virgen, a name that became a cherished moniker. A devout follower of her teachings Gus often wore a Virgen de Guadalupe lapel pin on his polished suits, a symbol of both his faith and his impeccable sense of style. Gus was known for his love of fashion, always dressed to the nines, and unapologetically dapper. A gifted business manager, Gus followed in his late father’s footsteps, making a name for himself in the men’s retail industry. He was kind, compassionate, and treated every client as a friend, building personal connections that earned him numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. In Gus’s world, there were no strangers—only friends and family. His warmth and charm stayed with him until his last words. Whether playing poker, enjoying trips to casinos, or hosting parties and dinners, Gus created special memories with friends who spanned his entire life. He was preceded in death by his brother Roland, who shared Gus’s love for travel and casino games. Together, Gus, Ruby, Roland, and his wife Vicky created joyous memories that are still cherished today. The Arangua family takes comfort knowing that Gus and Roland are reunited, sharing laughter once again. Gus took great pride in his children. He often bragged about his son, Dean Arangua, who became a successful commercial driver, owning a lovely home in Dallas and traveling the U.S. and the world. Gus was equally proud of his daughter, Melissa Arangua-Johnson, who followed her family’s retail legacy before returning to college to pursue a career in teaching, all while raising a child with her husband Adam and pursuing her passion as a painter in Southtown. Whether enjoying a steak with Dean or befriending Melissa’s art peers, Gus’s infectious laughter and joyful spirit were always present. Although diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2017, Gus’s zest for life remained unshaken, even as his physical abilities slowed. “Still kicking, just not too high,” he’d quip with a smile, maintaining his positive outlook. Surrounded by love, with Ruby by his side as his unwavering caregiver, Gus lived each day with dignity and grace. His grandchild, Isa Luz Johnson, shared tender moments with her beloved “Pop.” They played catch, laughed together, and simply enjoyed each other’s presence in peaceful moments of repose. For Gus, family and friends were the true secret to a blessed life. Gus is survived by his wife of 55 years, Ruby Peche Arangua; his son, Dean Gilbert Arangua; his daughter, Melissa Arangua-Johnson (Adam); and his beloved grandchild, Isa Luz Johnson. Memorial Mass will be held at Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto, ORC Chapel, 5712 Blanco Rd., San Antonio, TX 78216. November 16, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. The family would like to express their deepest gratitude for everyone's love and support. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, P.O. Box 5014 Hagerstown, MD 21741 or donations@michaeljfox.org

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Guadalupe "Gus" Arangua

December 12, 1943 - October 21, 2024