Ismael Pena, Jr.

Ismael “Smiley” V. Pena, Jr., born August 11, 1943, returned to his heavenly home on September 28, 2015. He was 72 years old. Born to the late Ismael Pena, Sr. and Gregoria (Pena) V. Moran, Ismael graduated from Alice High School in 1962 and was a student at Texas A&I in Kingsville. He was a dedicated family man who unselfishly gave himself not only to his family but also to his career. Smiley, as many knew him, shared his knowledge and work ethic with all he encountered during his 31 years in the maintenance department at Coastal States Refinery. He was also a gifted carpenter that enjoyed bringing smiles to others by sharing his creations. He was an avid fan of baseball, ping-pong, westerns, mariachi and country music. When he wasn't working on a project he enjoyed sitting down in his garage relaxing to his music. Ismael enjoyed life and all it had to offer with his family and friends and made sure to share those moments daily. He was a strong man with a big heart who never hid his emotions. Ismael showed his love in many ways to many people. He is preceded in death by his parents, Ismael Pena Sr. and Gregoria (Pena) V. Moran. Ismael is survived by his wife of 49 years, Yolanda M. Pena; his sons, Javier (Michele Johnson) Pena, Gabriel (Precilla) Pena and Noel (Renee) Pena; his grandchildren, Ismael "Izzy" Carlos, Thalia, Marcos, Ava Elizabeth and Sheridan. Additionally he is survived by his extended family of cousins, nephews and nieces. Rosary will be recited at Sawyer George Funeral Home, Corpus Christi, Texas on Thursday, October 1, 2015 at 7 P.M. with viewing times from 6-8 P.M. Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, October 2, 2015 at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church on FM 624 west of Calallen at 10 A.M. His final resting place will be in Memorial Park Mausoleum in Robstown Texas.