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Robert E. Rosales was born in San Antonio, Texas on December 18, 1920 and was called to heaven on April 30, 2012. Preceding him in death by six weeks was his beloved wife, Delfina "Sweetie" Alderete Rosales. His parents Enrique Rosales and Margaret Escobedo Rosales also preceded him in death. He is survived by children: Kathleen Botello Ron; Robert Jr. Cynthia; Richard E. Christine; John Suzy; Sara Anne Roger Guerra and numerous nieces, nephews and godchildren. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren: Monica, Meledy, Lita, Robert Ray, Natalie, Robbie, Rianna, Jennifer, John, Ursula, Richard, Lori Nicole, and 10 great-grandchildren. Robert attended school in San Antonio and graduated from Lanier High School in 1938. Being a prolific artist, he continued his studies in art at San Antonio College. During this time Robert joined the Texas Army National Guard, 36th Infantry Division. He was nearing completion of his service when war broke out and he learned that he would be shipped overseas to join forces with the allies against the plight that was Hitler. Like many young men of his generation, Robert asked for a furlough from his training to return home to marry the love of his life, Sweetie. After only three days furlough he was back on base and preparing for battle overseas. The 36th Division landed in North Africa in 1943 and saw its first combat September 9th, landing at Salerno, Sicily. They fought their way throughout Italy, including Anzio, and eventually captured Rome. Attacking the Germans in Austria, they captured Field Marshall von Rundstedt as World War II Europe ended in May of 1945. After 400 days of combat and five campaigns Naples-Foggia, Rome-Arno, Southern France, Rhineland, and Central Europe, the 36th Infantry Division returned to the United States in December 1945. Robert earned the American Defense Service Medal, European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with five Bronze Stars, and one Bronze Arrowhead. He also was awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge and Good Conduct Medal. Robert, nicknamed "Rosie" during the war, returned home and celebrated victory against the Nazis and settled back into civilian life, gaining employment at Kelly Air Force Base and starting his family. He and Sweetie created a happy home and built strong, lasting relationships with dear friends. Although retired from Kelly Air Force Base after 31 years of service, he continued in the work force in different positions, most notably as a Bexar County Appraiser. Life-long Catholics, Robert and Sweetie raised five children in the church. They remained residents of the south side of San Antonio and members of St. James the Apostle Catholic Church. Robert held many volunteer leadership roles, including Commander and Life Member of VFW Post 9186; President of the 36th Division, 141st Infantry Association, San Antonio Chapter, where he was a founding member and editor of their monthly newsletter; Life Member Disabled American Veterans Association, Chapter 25; and member of American Legion Post 568. Robert enthusiastically enjoyed music, dancing, art and cherished friendships. He was a loving father, grandfather and great grandfather—providing a legacy his children and their families will honor forever. Robert E. "Rosie" Rosales was an honorable man and a true patriot who will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him. Visitation will be held on Sunday, May 6, 2012 from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with a rosary to be recited that evening at 7:00 p.m. at Alamo Funeral Chapels. Funeral mass will be held on Monday, May 7, 2012 at 12:30 p.m. at St. James Catholic Church. Interment will follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to Autism Community Network, Sunshine Cottage School for Deaf Children, or a charity of your choice.

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Robert E. Rosales

December 18, 1920 - April 30, 2012