Antonio López Luna

Antonio López Luna was a man whose life was as rich and heartening as his enduring legacy. Dad went home in the arms of our Lord and Savior Jesus. Surrounded by love, he passed away peacefully in his sleep on February 14, 2025, in Portland, Texas. Born on September 5, 1939, in Corpus Christi, Texas, Antonio's journey was marked by perseverance, love, and unwavering faith.

Antonio was preceded in death by his loving parents, Jose B. Luna and Jesusa L. Luna; his siblings, Emma Salazar, Gracie Luna, Humberto Luna, and Violanda Zuniga; and his daughter, Mary Jane Toulou. Their legacy of warmth and family values lived on through Antonio's actions and the love he shared with those around him.

He is survived by his adoring wife, Maria Luisa Z. Luna; his children, Tony Luna Jr., Joe Luis Luna (Jeanna), Rudy Luna (Cindy), Mary Ann Gonzalez (Johnny), and Mary Alice Luna-Martinez (Genaro Martinez Jr.); his siblings, Elida Laureles, Robert (Linda) Luna, Ruben Luna, Sylvia Luna, Norma (Julian) Gonzalez, Jose (Toni) Luna Jr., Maria Perez, and Alfredo (Diana) Luna; 11 grandchildren; 12 great- grandchildren; and 1 great-great-granddaughter; who all will forever cherish the memories they created together.

Antonio's early years were characterized by hard work and dedication. As a young man he took on various roles, including a busboy at local eateries which laid the foundation for his strong work ethic. His career took a significant turn when he joined Butter Krust in Corpus Christi, not only for the opportunity it presented but also because it was there that he met his beloved wife, Maria Luisa Zaragosa.

Understanding the importance of education, Antonio went back to school in the late '70s, balancing night shifts with his studies to earn his high school equivalent diploma from West Oso High School. He later expanded his knowledge in business negotiations through a local law firm, a skill set that proved invaluable throughout his career. He worked part time in the 80’s in sales for AmWay and received the National Sales Award for AmWay.

In 1969, Antonio embarked on a long and fulfilling career with Reynolds Metals/Sherwin Alumina, starting as a laborer and retiring four decades later as a control room lead man operator. His colleagues, who affectionately knew him as "Chief," "Moon," and "Champ," respected him for his leadership and his fervent belief in second chances. Antonio was a tireless advocate for his fellow employees, championing their rights through the union. He traveled to the University of Wisconsin where in 1986 he negotiated on a contract on behalf of the Reynolds Metals AFL-CIO Aluminum Brick & Glass , NLRB (National Labor Relations Board) and the United Steelworkers of America.  Dad was a one of a kind, shop steward, a trustee on the E. Board, he was a negotiator on four different contracts for his Local Union 235-A; he received many awards for being a member of the grievance committee. He served three different terms on the Sherwin Aluminum steering committee. He was a lifetime member and charter member on three different unions, Aluminum workers of America, American Brick and Glass workers of America, and United Steel Workers of America. His commitment to the union took him to conventions across the country, where he also shared memorable vacations with his family.

Antonio's passion extended beyond his work and into the world of sports. A fervent supporter of the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers, and occasionally the Houston Astros, he shared his love for the game by coaching his sons in their formative years.  Some of his favorite movies were Rocky Balboa boxing movies and Westerns. He loved spending time with his family and during the holidays, especially Easter, he would BBQ.  He liked listening to the classic oldies but goodies! Alongside his wife, Antonio also enjoyed participating in a bowling league through Reynolds Metals, showcasing their teamwork and competitive spirit. They were quite a tag team!

Those who knew Antonio best will remember him as a loving, faith-filled, and thoughtful man. He was involved over 12 years as a Eucharist minister for Our Lady of Mt. Carmel in Portland, Tx.  It brought him great joy volunteering at the local Portland food pantry and was asked to serve on the Portland’s HCS Advisory Board Committee for the families of individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities.  Aside from that, he also loved prison ministry with a group formed by the inspiration of family under Los Luceros de Cristo, and was one of the first to enter with many members of his family to minister in word and song at the Walls Unit in Huntsville, TX. He was humbled and proud of this accomplishment.  Dad navigated life's challenges with grace and inspired those around him to do the same. His unwavering support and guidance were a testament to the strength of his character and the depth of his heart.

Dad’s life was a beautiful tapestry woven with the love of his family, the respect of his colleagues, and the joy of his interests. He would tell anyone that he could not have done it without the strength of God and the support and love of his wife.  He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to resonate through the lives of his family and those he touched. Antonio López Luna's journey on this earth may have concluded, but his spirit will forever remain alive as a bright light for all who had the privilege of knowing him. “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run [their very best to win], but only one receives the prize? Run [your race] in such a way that you may seize the prize and make it yours!” 1 Corinthians 9:24

Antonio’s family will receive condolences on Monday, February 24, 2025, at Treviño Funeral Home, 3006 Niagara St. @ PortAve., from 5:00 PM until 9:00 PM; with a Holy Rosary to be recited at 7:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:30 AM on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at Holy Family Catholic Church followed by Rite of Committal and Interment at Rose Hill Memorial Park.

To leave your condolences for the family of Antonio L. Luna, share your memories, or visit his tribute wall, please go to www.trevinofuneralhome.net.