Raul de los Santos

Raul de los Santos, 82, of Harlingen was called home by the Lord on Wednesday, March 5, 2025 at his residence surrounded by his loving family. He was born in San Benito on December 13, 1942 to Roberto and Vicenta de los Santos. Raul is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Roberto de los Santos and Ricardo de los Santos; and sisters, Elma Rangel and Nelda Garcia. Raul leaves behind to cherish his memory, his wife, Berta de los Santos; 2 daughters, Celina Nelson and her husband, Andrew, and Isela de los Santos. He is also survived by his precious grandchildren who will miss him dearly, Jonathan Nelson, Hannah Nelson, Aaron Nelson and Sarah Nelson; brother, Rene de los Santos and his wife, Berta; sister, Norma Vega; many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. Raul was a devoted husband and loving father. Berta and Raul were blessed with 56 years of marriage. Raul was never shy to express his love for Berta. During mass one Valentine's Day, he stood on the pew to throw his wife a kiss across the church. When he won prizes at the HOPE Stroke Support Group, he always shared with Berta. He gave her the most thoughtful and beautiful cards for all occasions. In their younger years, Raul and Berta were known as exceptional dance partners. As he grew older, the number of guapangos decreased but his humorous character increased as he often shared jokes with everyone he encountered. Raul was known for taking every opportunity to embrace teachable moments. In the Scurlocks grocery store parking lot, he bounced across two bumpers proving to his daughters that one should never walk between parked cars. (Unbeknownst to him, the other car was occupied by a napping driver.) Raul demonstrated perseverance and strength as he healed from a stroke and heart surgery in 2010. He became an active member of the HOPE Stroke Support Group and volunteered by praying, passing out door prizes, telling jokes, and sharing about his experience. He was a compliant patient who took his health seriously. He was a man of faith who volunteered often at church. Every morning, he sat with his daily readings before reading the newspaper. Raul was a kind, loving man who overcame obstacles through his faith in God. He provided for his family emotionally, spiritually and financially. He leaves behind a legacy of love and faith. The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation and gratitude for healthcare providers at Valley Baptist Medical Center-Harlingen, Golden Palms Skilled Nursing Facility, Sun Valley Rehabilitation, and The Medical Team Hospice. Additionally, we are grateful for the compassionate care provided by the following physicians and their staff: Dr. Stephanie H. Garcia, Dr. Luna Salazar, Dr. Flores, Dr. Sarhill, Dr. Shenkenberg, and Dr. Nolan Perez.

Raul de los Santos

December 13, 1942 - March 5, 2025

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