Robert Dennis Cantu

Robert D. Cantu

More than a bright and inquisitive son to Robert and Dolores Cantu (deceased). More than a loving big brother to count on through thick and thin to Stanley Cantu (deceased), Jerry Cantu and brother-like cousin Dicky Joe Reyes (deceased):

He was our Hero

Drafted into the U.S Army in 1968, graduated advanced infantry training and transferred to the 101st Army Division where he served two years of which one year was in Vietnam during the most intense battles of the Vietnam era where he was highly decorated receiving:

Bronze Star Medal (annotated by a “V” for Valor) – For heroism in ground combat against hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. As a rifleman in the Third Platoon of Company A, Robert distinguished himself, as his platoon advanced along a narrow ridge line during a reconnaissance in force mission, it came under intense fire automatic weapons and rocket propelled grenade fire from a well-entrenched North Vietnamese Army force. The ensuing battle lasted for five hours and on two separate occasions Private Robert Cantu crawled through the intense enemy fire to carry needed ammunition to members of his platoon. Through his actions his platoon was able to suppress the enemy fire and provide a base of fire so the wounded members of his platoon could be moved to a safe position and evacuated. Private Cantu’s person bravery and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army.

Bronze Star - (Oak Leaf cluster, second award instance of the same metal Bronze Star) – awarded for valor or distinguished service.

Air Medal – Awarded for acts of heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy.

And many other medals (seven total) and accolades. He returned home in 1970. Attended Long Beach State University where he attained a Bachelor’s of Science degree in 1973. He met the love of his life Patricia Alvarez and married her in March of 1976.

They liked many of the same things, enjoyed spending time together whether it was house cleaning, gardening, window shopping or traveling (Morro Bay their favorite place), cats, theater, eating and of course shopping. Robert’s favorite hobby was photography, he enjoyed taking pictures of nature and animals (squirrels, sea otters and seagulls) he had a knack for it and Angel Baseball games. They shared a long and loving life as one until his passing on October 10, 2024.

He is survived by his wife Patricia Cantu, brother Jerry Cantu, nephew Derrick Cantu, niece Daae Cantu, cousin Rene Ramirez and many other nieces and nephews whom he held a special relationships with.

He was always there for those who loved him and was loved by. He will forever be remembered as a loyal, loving, thoughtful, selfless, giving and wonderful Son, Brother, Husband, Uncle, Cousin and Brother-in-Law.

Where there is Love there is no distance, until we meet again in Eternity.