In Memory of Rey Candia, a Beloved GI Forum Member

The American GI Forum of Texas, Inc. Report: La Feria, TX – The GI Forum sadly reports the passing of one of its leaders. Mr. Reynaldo Candia -72, Corporal in the U.S. Army 1963-65 Passed away peacefully at Valley Medical Center on Oct. 11, 2016, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on Oct. 26, 1943, fourth of ten children to the late Amparo M. Ivarra and Dario Candia in Edinburg, TX.

He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Anita Candia, his children- Rosalinda Sanchez (Gerald), Reynaldo Candia Jr., Samuel Candia (Sally), Cindy Candia (Juan), 13 Grandchildren, Brothers-Homer Reyes, Frank Ivarra, Gilbert Ivarra and David Ivarra- Sisters- Minverva Culver, Juanita Costilla and Elizabeth Carter.

After working 30 years at Texaco Refinery in Anacortes, Washington and farming in his spare time, Rey and Anita retired to Harlingen, Texas.

Rey was actively involved in the American GI Forum having served in many capacities locally, in State, Washington and Texas and on the National Board. He served as National and Texas State Sgt-at-Arms, as a member of the Board of National SER Jobs for Progress. He was also a member of other Veterans organizations incliding the American Legion Post 205, Disabled American Veterans Association, VFW, and was a member of International Brotherhood of Real Bearded Santas, TOSA and many other veterans organizations.

Rey is preceded in death by his parents, brothers-Armando Aguilera and Phillip Lee Ivarra.

His extended family of the American GI Forum of Texas and its members from throughout the Nation send condolences and prayers to his family. The AGIF of Texas State Office, as requested by the State Commander, has on behalf of all our Texas members, sent flowers with a message to the family. We shall miss Rey, a warrior and a true patriot.

Services were held at Heavenly Grace Funeral Home Chapel on Friday October 14, 2016 from 1:00pm to 9:00pm with a rosary at 7:00pm. Funeral Service will be tomorrow Saturday October 15, 2016 at 10:00am with burial to follow at Heavenly Grace Memorial Park.