Rene D. Tambunga Sr.

Rene D. Tambunga Sr., born on April 10, 1954, in Ozona, Texas, to loving parents Ercilia and Renal Tambunga, passed away at his home. He proudly served four years in the U.S. Army, and his bond with his older brother, Reymundo, a fellow Army veteran, was strengthened by their playful rivalry with their younger brothers, Emilio and Frank, both Marine Corps veterans. 

 

Rene was a devout Catholic and a proud alumnus of Ozona High School, Class of 1973. Along with his brothers, he served as an altar boy at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, a testament to his faith, which remained central throughout his life. 

 

He inherited a love for the outdoors from his parents, who often took the family on camping trips. This passion carried over into his professional life, where he worked in construction after his military service. Known for his hardworking spirit and strong work ethic, Rene was deeply dedicated to his family and was always quick to offer a chat, a story or a good laugh. 

 

Rene is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marina Tambunga, his parents, Renal and Ercilia Tambunga, his brother Reymundo, and sister-in-law Maria (Coke) Tambunga. He leaves behind his son, Rene Jr., and daughter-in-law, Cintia, along with his grandchildren Alessandra, Rene III, and Amber; his son Gabriel, and grandchildren Gabriel Jr., Desiree, Sebastian, Ethan, Jackson, and Alycia, as well as great-grandchildren Anthony and Alexander. His daughter Valerie and her children, Luis, Christopher, and Marina, also mourn his passing. Rene is survived by his brothers Johnny, Emilio, and Frank; his sisters Shio and Betty; his sisters-in-law Yolanda, Irma, Amelia, Irene, Martha, and Delia; and his brothers-in-law Bear and Joe. 

 

Rene’s devotion to his family only deepened after the loss of his wife, Marina. He found solace in staying connected with his loved ones, reaching out to his siblings, nieces, and nephews to check in or attend family gatherings. His infectious humor and storytelling often filled these gatherings with laughter and joy. 

 

Funeral services were held on Saturday, October 7, 2024, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, with interment at Cedar Hill Cemetery in Ozona. Arrangements were handled by Preddy Funeral Home.