Vicente

Delgado

Vicente Delgado, 93, peacefully passed away at his home, surrounded by his loving family on Friday, December 9, 2022, in Harlingen, Texas.

Delgado was born to Aurelio Delgado and Julia Ayala Delgado in Los Fresnos, Texas on April 6, 1929.

He was preceded in death by the love of his life, his devoted wife of 71 years Maria Delgado; and his infant daughter Maricela Delgado.

Siblings preceding him in death include Martina Delgado, Francisco Castellano, Porfirio Delgado, Amelia Puga, Alberto Delgado, Margarito Castellano, and Jose Martinez (primo hermano).

Delgado is survived by his four loving children: Beatriz Leal (Jacinto), Martha Anne Delgado, Jesse Delgado, and Gloria Margaret Martinez (Alberto).  Grandchildren: Lisa Jean Garcia, Michael Leal (Yvette), Jacqueline Rebolloso (Naidu), Lieutenant Colonel, Monika Lunn, USAF (Adam), Gregorio Gonzalez, III (Alejandra), Erik Delgado (Lora), Jennifer L. Martinez and Mario Martinez, Jr. (Heather). Great grandchildren: Cristian, Isabella, and Alexander Rebolloso, Devyn and Maya Gonzalez, Detric and Gabriel Delgado, Taylor and Victoria Clancy, Liam and Ethan Reason, and Deacon Martinez. Delgado's brother Joe Martinez of Stinnett, Texas.

Mr. Delgado's 50-year career is well known for being a pioneer as one of the first Hispanic assistant funeral director's in Harlingen, Texas. Funeral directors, employees, medical and legal communities as well as law enforcement called him an institution because of his extensive expertise in his field, professionalism, his personal touch, and kindness to the community he served for so long. He was highly recommended by many and spoke eloquently at the services because he cared and made a point to befriend the families of the loved ones that had passed away.

In the early 1960s, Delgado was a commercially licensed driver, and a rectory assistant at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church and then became a certified EMS. He saved lives and brought new ones into the world.

Within his family, Delgado was also well-known to be a gentle soul with a great sense of humor. He was very well respected by the community and was often referred to as a "great man". His best friend was Alberto Delgado (brother who preceded him in death); but, until the moment of his passing, his 'bestest' friend was his son Jesse Delgado.

Delgado was an avid Dallas Cowboy fan. He enjoyed going to the game rooms with his wife, daughters, and sons-in-law. His favorite pastime was to sleep.

Services will be held Tuesday, December 13th from 1 pm to 9 pm with Rosary at 7 pm. Wednesday, December 14th , a Catholic Mass will be held at 10 am , at St. Anthony Catholic Church followed by the burial at Combes Cemetery, Combes, Texas.

Pallbearers are Alberto Martinez, Michael Leal, Ruben Delgado, Ramiro Delgado, Sid Delgado and Samuel Alvarez. Honorary pallbearer is Jacinto Leal.

Mr. Delgado's family wishes to extend a special thank you to the dedicated nurses, especially Diana, counselor Ashley and Father Eusebio from Gentiva Hospice Care.

A very special appreciation and thank you go to his friends of many years: Freddie Elizondo, Lenny Elizondo, Marty Perales, April Elizondo, Joe Hernandez and Jessica Cortez.

Arrangements are under the direction of Trinity at Harrison Funeral Home, 1002 East Harrison Ave. Harlingen, TX 78550. www.trinityfunerals.com