Roberto Jose Loza

Roberto J. Loza, lovingly known as Bobby, passed away at the age of 80 on Thursday, October 22, 2026, following a long struggle with illness. He was called home to be with the Lord, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, service, and devotion to his family and community.

Bobby was born on October 17, 1946, in Edinburg, Texas, to Antonio Loza and Lily Belen Flores-Loza. He was the third child and youngest son of six children. He graduated from Edinburg High School as a proud member of the Class of 1965, where he ran track and played football under the guidance of legendary coach Fred Akers.

Bobby later moved to Santa Barbara, California, where he continued his education and played college football before enlisting in the United States Navy during the Vietnam era. He honorably served his country as a radioman, demonstrating the dedication and commitment that would continue to define his life and career.

Following his military service, Bobby was accepted into the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Academy. Upon graduation, he began his career as a Texas DPS Trooper in Crystal City, Texas. He was later stationed in Zapata, Texas, where he continued serving as a Trooper before becoming a Sergeant Investigator in Narcotics/CLE Trooper. After many years of dedicated service, he retired from the Texas DPS in 1996. His commitment to protecting and serving others continued after retirement, as he worked as an investigator for the Zapata County Sheriff's Office until his retirement in 2006.

Bobby's dedication to serving others extended beyond his career in law enforcement. He also served as a volunteer firefighter and was a member of the Knights of Columbus, reflecting on his commitment to helping others and giving back to his community.

Bobby was a faithful Catholic whose faith guided his life and strengthened his commitment to serving others. Through his faith and membership in the Knights of Columbus, he embraced the values of charity, fellowship, and service. His love for the Lord and devotion to his family were important parts of who he was. His faith remained a source of strength throughout his life, and his family takes comfort in knowing that he is now resting in the loving presence of God.

Bobby and his beloved wife, Cookie, called Zapata home for 42 years. During those years, they built lasting friendships, established deep roots in the community, and made countless memories. After many wonderful years in Zapata, Bobby and Cookie moved to Leander, Texas, to be closer to their daughters and beloved grandchildren. Family was always at the heart of Bobby's life, and being near those he loved most made this new chapter especially meaningful.

Above all his accomplishments, Bobby's greatest pride and joy was his family. To his cherished grandchildren, he was lovingly known as “Papa,” a special name that will forever hold a place in their hearts. The love he shared with his family and the memories they created together will remain among their most treasured gifts. His presence, guidance, and love will be deeply missed, but the lessons he taught and the memories he leaves behind will continue to live on through the generations.

Bobby was preceded in death by his parents, Antonio Loza and Lily Belen Flores-Loza; his brothers, Tony Loza Jr. and Leo Loza; his sister, Yvonne Chapa; his parents-in-law, Ramon and Maria de la Luz Cantu; his brother-in-law, Eddie Cantu; his sister-in-law, Luz Maria Cantu; his niece, Cynthia Celene Cantu; his nephew, Ed Cantu and granddaughter Celeste Elena Garcia.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Maria G. “Cookie” Cantu Loza, who shared his life's journey and built a beautiful family alongside him. He also leaves behind his two loving daughters, Ana Loza (Rolando) Garza and Monica Loza (Gustavo) Garcia, and his three cherished grandchildren, Isabela Belen Garza, Andres Abelardo Garza, and Gustavo Roberto Garcia, who brought him immeasurable joy.

He is also survived by his sisters, Blanca Loza and Jo-Ann (Pat) Lynch; his brother-in-law, J. Ramon (Araceli) Cantu; his sisters-in-law, Sue Loza and Glenda Loza; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who will continue to honor his memory.

Bobby's life was one of faith, service, strength, and love. From proudly serving his country in the United States Navy to protecting and serving his community through law enforcement and volunteer firefighting, he dedicated much of his life to helping others. Yet his most cherished roles were those of devoted husband, loving father, and proud Papa.

Though his passing leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who loved him, his legacy will live on through the family he cherished, the community he served, and the countless lives he touched along the way.

May the Lord welcome Bobby into His heavenly kingdom and grant him eternal rest. May Our Blessed Mother watch over him, and may God bring comfort and peace to Cookie, his daughters, grandchildren, and all who mourn his passing. His faith, love, and legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.

Funeral Arrangements

The family invites relatives and friends to join them in prayer and remembrance as they honor and celebrate Bobby's life at the following services.

Rosary and Visitation — Cedar Park, Texas

Saturday, November 7, 2026 Beck Funeral Home

1700 E. Whitestone Blvd., Cedar Park, Texas

• Visitation: 2:00–3:00 p.m.
• Rosary: 3:00–4:00 p.m.
• Reception: 4:00–6:00 p.m.

Visitation and Rosary — Edinburg, Texas

Friday, November 20, 2026

Memorial Funeral Home 208 E. Canton, Edinburg, Texas

• Visitation: 4:00–8:00 p.m.
• Rosary: 6:00 p.m.

Funeral Mass and Interment — Edinburg, Texas

Saturday, November 21, 2026

Funeral Mass: 9:00 a.m. at

Holy Family Catholic Church

1302 E Champion St, Edinburg, TX

• Interment of cremated remains: 10:00 a.m. at

Hillcrest Memorial Park

1701 E Richardson Rd, Edinburg, TX

Flowers are graciously welcomed. For those who prefer, memorial donations may be made to St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church in Cedar Park, Texas in lieu of flowers.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to all who have offered their love, prayers, and support during this difficult time. Your kindness and presence are deeply appreciated as we honor and celebrate Bobby's life and the beautiful legacy he leaves behind.