CONFIRMED: Rafael Torres Maldonado, Retired, Veteran, US Army (131-26) 4 Aug 26
501 North St
Converse, TX 78109
USA
US ARMY RETIRED VETERAN
The family of Mr. Rafael Torres Maldonado, a US Army (Ret.) Veteran, requests the presence and participation of the San Antonio Patriot Guard at the services, and the LEO supported procession, and graveside rendering of military honors of their loved one. We are honored to accept this invitation.
Rafael Torres-Maldonado passed away peacefully on July 15, 2026 at his home in Converse, Texas, at the age of 72. Rafael was born on October 24, 1953, in Villalba, Puerto Rico, to his parents Juan Torres and Flora Maldonado.
He served as a Police Officer in Puerto Rico for 5 years, as Military Police in the U.S. Army for 25 years and as a Force Protection specialist at Ft Sam Houston for 10 years.
He enjoyed volunteering at his church, playing hand percussion including bongos and congas and spending quality time with his friends and family here in the United States and back home in Puerto Rico.
His warm and loving presence touched the lives of many people across the various communities he dedicated his life towards.
He is survived by his wife of 47 years of marriage, Betzaida; three sons, Rafael, Juan and Christopher; and seven grandchildren, Gio, Angelo, Elianna, Gabe, Juan, Nico and Luca.
WEATHER: Hi 98 / Lo 79, 0 % Chance of Rain, 83 % Humidity, Wind: 6 mph SSE
REQUESTOR: Vickie King White, Family SPOX
STAGING: 11:30 am, Tuesday, August 4, 2026
St. Monica Catholic Church
501 North Street
Converse, Texas 78109
https://goo.gl/maps/UmMWhQJuzL3w1Wme6
BRIEFING: 11:45 am
SERVICE: 12:30 pm
St. Monica Catholic Church
501 North Street
Converse, Texas 78109
https://goo.gl/maps/UmMWhQJuzL3w1Wme6
KSU: 1:30 pm (Semper Gumby)
INTERMENT: 2:15 pm – Shelter #2 (Call to Verify)
Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery
1520 Harry Wurzbach Road
San Antonio, Texas 78209
https://goo.gl/maps/kQ68VALuUAptXpgS9
RC: Ken “Hot Foot” Steiner
ksteiner1958@gmail.com
FC: Alice “Cake Lady” Wagener
hwagener@sbcglobal.net
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!
***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