Obituary of Fred R. Cortinez

Fred R. Cortinez, age 100, passed away on Saturday March 23, 2018 peacefully in his sleep.

Fred was preceded in death by his beloved mother Francis Cortinez; his wife Lawrence; and his 2 brothers and 4 sisters.

He is survived by his loving children Robert Cortinez (wife Mary Lou), Linda Diaz (husband Richard), Becky Cortinez (husband Carl DeForest), and Georgia Hernandez (husband Joe); grandchildren Marc Diaz, Michael Diaz, Tony Arrendondo (wife Anita), Fred Arredondo, Stephanie Gatica  (husband Samuel) and Steven Hernandez; and great-grandchildren Adriana Valerie, Matthew, Aiden Diaz and Sirena Gatica.

Fred was born and raised in Texas. As a young man during World War II he was drafted into the Army infantry serving as a squad leader in Europe and Africa and receiving a Purple Heart for his bravery in combat. After the war, Fred returned to Austin.  In 1947, he married Lorenza and they had four beautiful children. Over the next 40 years, Fred showed true entrepreneurial spirit as he owned a number of Exxon service stations in Austin, as well as many other companies including eateries, a beauty shop and a music company.

After the loss of his wife of 46 years, Fred then 76 years old, decided that he no longer wished to stay home. Hoping to return to work, he applied for a position as a bagger at his local H-E-B. For the last 20 years, he worked as a customer service representative at the HEB at Hancock Center and retired at the age of 95.  Ahora Sí of the American Statesman did a beautiful story in honor of Mr. Cortinez as a show of appreciation to his dedication to his community and his family.

Honored Pallbearers will be Ricky Martinez, Pete Martinez, Samuel Gatica, Steven Hernandez, Freddy Galindo, Tony Galindo, Robert Galindo, and Mike Borrero.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. with Recitation of the Holy Rosary beginning at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 28, 2018 at Mission Funeral Home – South Side, 6204 South First Street; Austin. Texas 78745. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 29, 2018 at St. Julia Catholic Church, 900 Tillery St., Austin, Texas 78702. Interment will follow at Assumption Cemetery.

Please visit www.missionmemorials.com to order flowers and offer condolences to the family.