George G. Canales, Jr., a cherished husband, father, brother, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2025, in Abilene, Texas, surrounded by his loving family. Born on November 15, 1946, in Mercedes, Texas, George grew up in Robstown, where he attended school and formed the foundational values that would guide him throughout his life.
George was a man of many talents, dedicating his career to working as a carpenter, ranch hand, and mechanic. His hands not only crafted physical structures but also wove together the fabric of family and community ties. An outdoorsman at heart, he found joy in hunting despite the playful acceptance that he never quite “got the big one”. George also enjoyed riding horses and tinkering with old cars.
In addition to his varied career and hobbies, George answered the call to service, when he was drafted into the United States Army, serving from 1967 to 1969. He served honorably overseas in Vietnam, where his bravery earned him numerous accolades, including the Vietnam Service Medal with four Bronze Service Stars, and the revered Purple Heart Medal.
On Christmas Eve in 1969, George married the love of his life, Rosita H. Vasquez, in Corpus Christi. Together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and enduring memories until her passing.
George is remembered fondly by his children, Christopher George Canales of Coleman, Daniel Andrew Canales and wife, Lois, of Coleman, and Stevens James Canales, Sr. and wife, Melissa, of Colorado. He also leaves behind his beloved siblings: Hilda Perez of Robstown, Irenio Canales and wife, Sharon, of Colorado, Ben Canales of Abilene, Gilberto Canales and wife, Lucy, of Abilene, and Dalia Cayenne and husband, Darrel, of Abilene. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Mercadese Canales, Nathaniel Garvey, Devin Garvey, Melina Manibusan, Liliana Canales, and Steven Canales, Jr.; as well as his great granddaughter, Athena Manibusan. He is further survived by many nieces and nephews who held him dearly in their hearts.
George was preceded in death by his parents, George B. and Marta Garcia Canales, his loving wife, Rosita H. Canales, and two brothers, Oscar Canales and Fred Canales.
A visitation to honor George will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, July 4, 2025, at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel, 400 W Pecan St, Coleman. A funeral service will take place 2:00 p.m. Saturday, July 5, 2025, Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Seth Moore officiating. He will be laid to rest with Military Honors in a committal service at the Texas State Veterans Cemetery at Abilene, 7457 West Lake Road, Abilene, on July 7, 2025, beginning at 11:00 a.m.
George G. Canales, Jr. will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His spirit, marked by love and loyalty, will live on in the stories and memories shared by family and friends.
We invite you to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with the Canales family by signing the guestbook on George’s tribute page at www.stevensfuneralhome.com. Stevens Funeral Home is honored to serve the Canales family.
