Gabriel Sarinana

Gabriel Morales Sariñana passed away on Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at his home in Mission, Texas. Gabriel, or Gabe as he was often referred to, was born in San Juan del Rio, Durango then moved to McAllen, TX as a child and was raised just north of the College Heights area on 21st Street. Predeceased by his parents, Francisco and Maria Sariñana, siblings, Gilberto (Socorro) Sariñana, Liberio (Manuela) Sariñana, Cecilia (Joel) Gutierrez, Laura (Jose) Lopez, Martin (Cecilia) Sariñana, Miguel Sariñana and Francisco (Sandra) Sariñana Jr. and his oldest son, Roque Gabriel Sariñana. Gabriel is survived by his sons and daughters in law, Rigoberto and Nicol Sariñana (Christian Clay, Cameron James, and Leslie Kay), Robert and Kelly Sariñana (Liam Robert, Elizabeth Noelle, Luke Gabriel and Ezra James) and Leanna (Roque Gabriel) Sariñana (Alina Leanne and Royden Gabriel), grandkids all with his surname, and his former wife, Gloria Y. Reyna Hayes. Gabriel is also survived by two brothers, Bernardo (Beatriz) Sariñana and Antonio (Aida) Sariñana, many nephews and nieces and in-laws.

Gabriel joined the US Army in 1968 and served in Vietnam from 1969 to 1970. He attended Texas Southmost College to become a certified welder and labored for 40 years with working hands, most of this time working for Genemco Company in Edinburg, TX.

Gabriel spent most of his mornings in his 12-year retirement rising early and making his huevos a la Mexicana or heading to Whataburger to get his day started, in more recent years, he managed pick up and drop off for his youngest grandchildren to school or sports activities. He was a loving grandfather, proud of each of his gifts – often playing games with or teasing his legacy, treating each of them in a unique way. He enjoyed spending time with his family, never letting an invitation down; he was often found near one of his sons by the BBQ pit waiting to enjoy his next meal. He was a selfless person who was willing to help others when there was a need, even if just for a listening ear. He loved the south Texas fall weather, specifically the time to enjoy his Thanksgiving meal. He would faithfully watch his team, the Dallas Cowboys, play each week in his ever-present boots and jeans, oftentimes with a wager going for a win. A faithful man who loved God, he was known for his kind nature, quiet strength and presence as well as his peaceful smile.