CONFIRMED: Robert L. “Bob” Thurston, Veteran, US Navy, Vietnam (196-25) 15 Oct 25
1700 SE Military Dr
San Antonio, TX 78214
USA
US NAVY VETERAN – VIETNAM WAR
The family of Mr. Robert L. “Bob” Thurston, a US Navy 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.
Robert LeRoy Thurston was born to parents George and Virginia Thurston on July 13, 1947, in Lakeview, Michigan. He peacefully passed, surrounded by family on October 5, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas.
Robert graduated from Highland High School in 1966, and later attended San Antonio College. He honorably served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War, where he fought with fellow sailors on the USS Ranger and USS Providence. He earned a National Defense Service Medal, Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device, and a Vietnam Service Medal. Robert married his best friend’s sister, Emma, after returning from the war. After the Navy, he started working for CPS Energy where he dedicated 32 years of employment.
Robert is remembered as having a love for his family, friends, fishing and tinkering with automobiles or motorcycles. He loved adventures, whether it was riding a motorcycle, a roller coaster or driving with Emma across the country in an RV. He had a servant’s heart and love for his community. He actively participated in his local American Legion, Post #38, of Floresville, Texas for over 20 years. He also worked with the Boy Scout Troop 114 of Floresville, Texas. He was always offering a helping hand wherever it was needed. His family, friends, neighbors, Legion friends, and church community all knew they could count on him.
Robert is survived by his wife, Emma Thurston; his daughters, Catherine Lee and husband John, Joy Thurston-Cook, and husband Tybor; his son Robert Thurston Jr.; his sister Gaila Schultze and husband Karl; his brother, Terry N. Thurston; his grandsons, Chase Lee, and Van Cook; and many beloved Brother-in-Laws, Sister-in-Laws, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
WEATHER: Hi 91 / Lo 70, 0 % Chance of Rain, 85 % Humidity, Wind: 4 mph E
REQUESTOR: Emma Thurston, Wife
STAGING: 8:00 am, Wednesday, October 15, 2025
Mission Park Funeral Chapels South
1700 Military Drive
San Antonio, Texas 78214
https://goo.gl/maps/7H47YPZNruv
BRIEFING: 8:15 am
SERVICE: 9:00 am
Mission Park Funeral Chapels South
1700 Military Drive
San Antonio, Texas 78214
https://goo.gl/maps/7H47YPZNruv
KSU: 10:30 am (Semper Gumby)
INTERMENT: 11:15 am – Shelter #2 (Call to Verify)
Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery
1520 Harry Wurzbach Road
San Antonio, Texas 78209
https://goo.gl/maps/kQ68VALuUAptXpgS9
RC: Bob “Pizza Man” Johnson
bobtxpgr@gmail.com
FC: Richard “Bean” Sandoval
Richardsandoval196@hotmail.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!
***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