TITLE: In memory of Joseph Gerard Banales.

SUMMARY: In memory of Joseph Gerard Banales.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The tragic passing of Joseph Gerard Banales on April 15, 2023, at the age of 22, has brought an incalculable loss to the family and friends of this beloved young man; and WHEREAS, Born on December 15, 2000, to Margarito Banales III and Frances Szabo, Joseph Banales grew up with the companionship of his twin sister, Gabriella, and his brothers, Krisztofer, Nickolas, and Matthew; he attended Catholic school until moving with his family to Germany, where he graduated with honors from Ramstein High School; he excelled as a saxophonist in the St. Anthony High School Jazz Band and also competed in numerous drill team and rifle team events while in high school; and WHEREAS, At the time of his passing, Mr. Banales was enrolled as a student at the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio; in addition to being in the nursing program and serving as a senator in the student government, he was a contracted cadet in the ROTC program and was on track to be commissioned into the U.S. Army as a nurse in December 2023; and WHEREAS, In pursuing a military career in nursing, this patriotic young man was following in the footsteps of his parents and oldest brother, who served as army nurses, and of his other siblings, who have all been active in the military and reserve; he enjoyed being part of a close-knit family, and his relationship with his girlfriend, Amy Bonilla, was a source of much happiness to him; and WHEREAS, Although Joseph Banales will be greatly missed, his loved ones will forever cherish their memories of his kindness, his devotion to his faith and his country, and the joy and laughter that he brought into their lives; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 88th Legislature, hereby pay tribute to the memory of Joseph Gerard Banales and extend heartfelt condolences to all who mourn his passing; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this Resolution be prepared for his family and that when the Texas Senate adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Joseph Banales. Men ndez President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on April 24, 2023, by a rising vote.