HARLINGEN, TX. — Jesus “Chuy” Santillan

86, passed away Friday, November 13, 2009 at Solara Hospital in Harlingen, TX.

Chuy was born November 30, 1940 in Mexico to Pablo Santillan and Aurora Tiscareno. He proudly served his country for 21 years in the United States Army and served during the Vietnam Conflict. Chuy enjoyed antique cars, birds, but his true passion was gardening and the outdoors.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Monica Santillan; and a brother, Antonio Santillan.

Chuy is survived by his wife of 40 years, Gerlinde Santillan; brothers, Chon (Bartola) Santillan of Harlingen and Victor Santillan of Houston; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A gathering will be held at Buck Ashcraft Funeral Home on Sunday, November 15, 2009 from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. with the Holy Rosary to be prayed at 7 p.m.

The funeral procession will depart the Buck Ashcraft Funeral Home on Monday, November 16, 2009 at 1:30 p.m. for a 2 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial at Queen of Peace Catholic Church with Father Alphonsus McHugh as celebrant. All services will conclude at the church.

Pallbearers will be Eddie Santillan, Rick Santillan, Danny Santillan, Andy Santillan, Rolly Santillan, Rene Santillan and Efrain Santillan.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Queen of Peace Catholic Church, 1507 New Combes Hwy, Harlingen, Texas 78550.

The family invites to sign the online guestbook or leave a memory at www.buck-ashcraft.com.

Arrangements are with Buck Ashcraft Funeral Home.

Sign the guestbook at: http://legacy.com/valleystar/obituaries.asp