TITLE: In memory of Joel Jaime Saenz of Rio Grande City.

SUMMARY: In memory of Joel Jaime Saenz of Rio Grande City.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Family and friends will forever cherish their memories of Joel Jaime Saenz of Rio Grande City, who passed away on June 13, 2018, at the age of 64; and WHEREAS, The son of Armando and Lydia Saenz, Joel Saenz was born in Rio Grande City on February 27, 1954; he grew up with six siblings, Armando, Ruben, Sylvia, Sonia, Selenia, and Monica, and he graduated from Rio Grande City High School in 1972; and WHEREAS, Answering his nation's call to duty, Mr. Saenz enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1974; after finishing recruit training, he went on to serve at a number of medical facilities, both stateside and overseas; he achieved the rank of chief petty officer aboard the USS Belleau Wood,and he retired from the navy in 1995, drawing to a close a distinguished military career that spanned more than two decades; in recognition of his valiant service, he earned numerous awards and commendations; and WHEREAS, Mr. Saenz returned to his hometown, and he received a bachelor's degree in health science from George Washington University in 1997; in the subsequent years, he worked for the Border Region MHMR, Hilliard Disability Consultants, and the Rio Grande City Consolidated Independent School District before joining the Starr County Veteran Service Office in 2017; he further benefited his community as a member of the Starr County Memorial Hospital board of directors; and WHEREAS, In all his endeavors, Mr. Saenz enjoyed the love and support of his wife, Mary, with whom he shared a rewarding marriage of more than 40 years; he was a dedicated father to his two children, Lisa and Joel, and he took great pride in his four grandchildren, Sabrina, Anel, Pedro, and Joel; in his leisure time, he found pleasure in hunting, fishing, and swapping jokes and stories with loved ones, and he was also a skilled handyman; and WHEREAS, Although Joel Saenz is deeply missed, memories of his unfailing compassion, his warm and generous nature, and his devotion to his family remain to comfort and inspire all those who were fortunate enough to know him; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 86th Texas Legislature hereby pay tribute to the life of Joel Jaime Saenz and extend sincere condolences to his relatives and friends; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for his family and that when the Texas House of Representatives adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Joel Jaime Saenz. Guillen Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 1442 was unanimously adopted by a rising vote of the House on May 10, 2019. Chief Clerk of the House