Tributes

Charlie Acuña, our hero, protector, and family rock, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, August 23, at the age of 80. Born on November 3, 1944, in El Paso, Texas, Charlie lived a life marked by resilience and unshakable devotion to those he loved. He faced life’s challenges with the courage of a warrior and the heart of a servant, never wavering in his strength. Clad in impenetrable armor, he always stood tall—ready to shield and protect his family. More than anything, Charlie was a man of deep faith and loyalty. He was the strongest person we will ever know. He embodied grit, determination, and sacrifice, yet balanced his strength with tenderness and unconditional love. Beyond his cherished role as a husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, he was a true visionary. After dedicating years of his life to the apparel manufacturing industry, he turned his focus to revitalizing downtown San Antonio—particularly the SoFlo district. His work breathed new life into the city, leaving a lasting imprint that will continue to inspire and uplift generations to come. He lived what he proudly described as a “beautiful life,” measured not only by what he built, but by how he built it. Charlie is survived by his devoted wife, Nora; his children: Christa and her husband Jamie; Carlo and his fiancée Amanda; Greg; and Craig; his sister, Sandra; his cherished grandchildren: Isabel, Charlie, and Ellie; his mother-in-law, brothers-in-law, and sisters-in-law; and his nieces and nephews. He also shared a special bond with his bonus grandchildren, Jules and Wyatt, and held in his heart grandchildren, Samantha, Louie, Paulina, and Sebastian. He was preceded in death by his father, Juan Acuña; his mother, Josefina Acuña; and his brother, John Acuña. We are forever grateful to the numerous friends and family who helped Charlie live as long as he did—bringing him daily light through phone calls, visits, meals, and pure friendship—and to his dedicated care team, Jim Wilson, Amanda Burrows, and Jason Rhoades, whose support made each day brighter. Though our hearts ache, we rejoice in knowing that he was welcomed into the most magnificent homecoming in Heaven. His spirit and love will remain etched in our lives forever. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Charlie’s honor to Somebody Cares San Antonio (somebodycares.org), an organization bringing hope and restoration by rebuilding homes in the Hill Country community impacted by the recent floods. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 2, at 10:00 a.m., followed by a service at 11:00 a.m. at Mission Park Funeral Chapels Dominion. Immediately after, family and friends are invited to join us for a Celebration of Life luncheon at Roca & Martillo, where we will continue to honor and remember Charlie together.

Tributes

Charlie A. Acuna

November 3, 1944 - August 23, 2025