CONFIRMED: Ismael Nevarez, Retired, Veteran, US Army, WWII/Korea (160-76) 28 Sep 26
2117 Harry Wurzbach Rd
San Antonio, TX 78209
USA
US ARMY RETIRED VETERAN – WWII, KOREA
The family of Mr. Ismael Nevarez, a US Army (Ret.) Veteran, requests the presence and participation of the San Antonio Patriot Guard at the graveside rendering of military honors of their loved one. We are honored to accept this invitation.
Ismael Nevarez, passed away peacefully on September 6, 2026, at the age of almost 101. Born on November 4, 1925, in Corozal, Puerto Rico, Ismael lived a remarkable life defined by service, love of family, faith, music, friendship, and an unmistakable joy for living.
Ismael was the second youngest and the last surviving member of his family of brothers and sisters. It was in Corozal that he met the love of his life, Olga E. Nevarez, who preceded him in death. Together, they built a loving family and shared a life filled with devotion, laughter, and memories that continue through the generations.
A Life of Military Service
Ismael proudly served 23 years in the United States Army, retiring as a Sergeant First Class (SFC). His military career included service during World War II and the Korean War, with assignments at U.S. Army bases throughout the United States as well as special missions in Taiwan, Iran, and Paraguay.
A highly accomplished leader in the U.S. Army Signal Corps, Ismael was responsible for managing and training both U.S. and foreign military personnel in integrated command-and-control telecommunications networks. His technical expertise, leadership, and ability to work across cultures made him an invaluable member of the Army.
Among his most significant honors was recognition with the Congressional Gold Medal as a member of the 65th Infantry Regiment, the historic Puerto Rican regiment known as the Borinqueneers and recognized as the only all-Hispanic regiment in U.S. Army history.
His military service was more than a career—it was a reflection of his character: disciplined, dependable, proud, and committed to helping others succeed.
A Life Filled with Joy
While Ismael accomplished much during his military career, those who knew him best will remember him for something even more important: the way he made people feel.
He was easygoing, compassionate, and almost always smiling. Everyone who met Ismael seemed to love him, and he had a remarkable ability to make people feel welcome. He loved to dance, sing, recite poetry, play cards and dominoes, and enjoy a good game of craps or poker. He was also an expert billiards player till 2025. His last game of dominoes just two weeks before passing.
And then there was bowling.
Ismael, known as “Izzy”, bowled well into his 90s and proudly achieved two perfect 300 games, earning his place in the prestigious Champion 300 Club. His competitive spirit never diminished, but neither did his sense of fun.
Music was another lifelong passion. Ismael played the guitar and, in his 80s, began learning the cuatro, Puerto Rico’s national instrument. He continued playing through the age of 99, keeping his connection to his Puerto Rican heritage alive through music.
During the final year of his life, Ismael became affectionately known as “the singer” at his residential home. His caregivers and staff cherished him for his singing, his smile, his humor, and his ability to brighten the lives of those around him.
His Greatest Legacy: Family
Above all else, Ismael was a devoted family man. He was a great son, a faithful and loving husband, a proud father, grandfather/abuelo, and great-grandfather/ “Daddy Abu.” His family was his greatest accomplishment and his greatest source of joy.
He is survived by his daughter, Olga E. Custodio, and his son, Pedro I. Nevarez; his grandchildren, Marcia E. Custodio, Edwin Custodio II, Melissa Covert, Nicole O’Rear, and Ashley Sossa; and his great-grandchildren, Jedi, Matthew, Nick, Ayla, Nora, Eden, Ever, Elli, and Ezra.
But Ismael’s definition of family extended far beyond those connected to him by blood. He became a grandfather figure to many of his family’s friends and their children. His kindness, generosity, and genuine interest in others made him a cherished presence in the lives of many.
He also gave generously of his time to his church, volunteering and serving others throughout his life.
A Legacy of Love, Service, and Joy
Ismael Nevarez leaves behind a legacy that cannot be measured simply by years or accomplishments. He leaves the legacy of a Puerto Rican who proudly served his country. A soldier who led and taught others. A husband who loved deeply. A father who remained devoted to his family. A grandfather who embraced generations beyond his own. A musician who never stopped learning. A bowler who never stopped competing. A singer who brought joy to those around him. And a man whose smile and kindness made the world a little brighter for everyone fortunate enough to know him. His life was long, but more importantly, it was full. The family takes comfort in knowing that Ismael’s spirit lives on in the many people he loved, the lessons he taught, the stories that will continue to be told, the music he played, and the generations that carry his name and his legacy forward.
Dad, Abuelo, Daddy Abu, Izzy—you will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.
WEATHER: Hi 95 / Lo 77, 13 % Chance of Rain, 86 % Humidity, Wind: 3 mph SSE
REQUESTOR: Olga Custodio, Daughter
STAGING: 9:30 am, Monday, September 28, 2026
Ebb Tide Lounge
2117 Harry Wurzbach Road
San Antonio, Texas 78209
https://goo.gl/maps/4sMDzLt1L3RavAzh7
BRIEFING: 9:45 am
KSU: 10:00 am (Semper Gumby)
INTERMENT: 10:30 am – Shelter #3 (Call to Verify)
Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery
1520 Harry Wurzbach Road
San Antonio, Texas 78209
https://goo.gl/maps/Q9DUsYSBUS92
RC: Ken “Hot Foot” Steiner
ksteiner1958@gmail.com
FC: Charles “Music Man” Jones
Cj083206@gmail.com
ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS
1. Iron horses if you can, cages are always welcome and appreciated and unless under special circumstances not allowed in processions. You do not have to have a motorcycle to participate in honoring our veterans.
2. Safety First: Please remember to properly hydrate (including the night before) before any outdoor activity and to dress appropriately. Do not hesitate to take a break at any time if you feel you need to get in the shade or get indoors and always ask for help at any time. Also please do not forget your sun screen.
3. Please remember that our mission is to stand tall and silent, and with honor and. NO TALKING, SMOKING, CHEWING OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS, OR CELL PHONE USE IN THE FLAG LINE!
4. Cemeteries are hallowed ground. Please keep radios off and engine noise to a minimum. Observe the 15 MPH speed limit. Show our respect to ALL who are in attendance.
5. If riding/driving a motorcycle on Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, which is located within a Military Installation, you will need to wear closed toe shoes, long sleeve shirt, gloves, DOT approved helmet, eye protection, long pants, and boots/shoes that cover the ankle.
***Safety Notice***
Before volunteering and/or attending any San Antonio Patriot Guard Riders missions we encourage you to review all safety information below. Included are some potential safety concerns to be aware of, however this does not include the full scope of all potential hazards. Anyone attending any San Antonio Patriot Guard Riders mission understands that they do so at their own risk. Neither the Patriot Guard Riders Organization nor its representatives are liable for any damages incurred on any PGR mission or event.
Funeral Processions/Escorts
EVERY RIDER IS SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for their own safety at all times while riding in a funeral procession.
At NO TIME are any riders authorized to block any intersection or otherwise block or impede traffic laws in any way. Only Law Enforcement officials are authorized to block and/or impeded the lawful flow of traffic.
If you choose to fly a Flag on your bike you are SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for ensuring it is secured and not a danger to any other rider or traffic.
Warm Regards,
Bob “Pizza Man” Johnson
Asst. State Captain
Deputy State Captain
San Antonio Patriot Guard
Dignity, Honor, Respect
Cell: 562-413-2223
“We can’t all be heroes. Some of us get to stand on the curb and clap as they go by.”
Will Rogers