Viviano Saldaña, Jr.

Viviano Saldaña Jr., 90 years old, passed away peacefully at his home on January 3.

Viviano was born in Kingsville on June 27, 1932, to Viviano Sr. and Manuela Saldaña. Affectionately known as Vive, he was born with a disability in an era with few resources for him. Being ahead of their time, his parents provided his schooling, and rich experiences lovingly among family and friends and a life filled with love. Vive loved life and people, and greeted everyone and each day with deep joy, gratefulness, and gentleness.

He loved traveling, trains, planes, and the San Antonio Zoo. Throughout his life, he visited many places, including California, Monterrey, Mexico, Dallas, and San Antonio. As a teenager, he'd ride the Kingsville bus for the entire route just for fun, before the bus driver would drop him back off at home. He loved to go to the Naval Base in Kingsville and watch the planes for hours. He loved to watch the train at the Train Depot while he drank his cafécito. He loved singing his favorite hymns, tinkering with the guitar, and playing the piano. He was an expert at playing Chalupa. The moment you entered a room, he'd light up with a great smile and extend his hand out excitedly to greet you.

For 90 years, he was lovingly cared for by his parents, his sisters, and his nieces. It was an honor and a privilege to take care of him. He brought us so much joy and will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his sisters, Petra Garcia and Ninfa Garza, and many nieces and nephews.

The family will receive condolences on Monday, January 9, 2023, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Turcotte Piper Mortuary with a prayer service at 7:00 PM. Chapel service will be on Tuesday, January 10, 2023, at 10:00 AM. Interment to follow at Chamberlain Cemetery.