Juan M. Yzaguirre

Juan M. Yzaguirre, a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather and great grandfather, honorable veteran, and brilliant man of unwavering faith, entered eternal rest on February 2, 2026, in Harlingen, Texas. He was 68 years old. Juan was a brilliant man—highly intelligent, thoughtful, and meticulous in all he did.

Juan was born on September 24, 1957, in Navasota, Texas, to Leonardo Yzaguirre (preceded in death) and Ninfa Yzaguirre. From an early age, Juan’s intelligence, discipline, and strong work ethic set him apart. He graduated from San Benito High School in 1977 and later pursued higher education, earning his certification as a medical radiologic technologist in 2001.

A man of service and honor, Juan proudly served his country in the United States Army, entering service on May 1, 1979, and receiving an Honorable Discharge on October 30, 1985. He achieved the rank of Sergeant (E-5) and was awarded numerous honors, including the National Defense Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon (Korea), Army Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal with Bronze Star, NCO Professional Development Ribbon, and the Expert Badge (Rifle/ Grenade). Juan was also a proud member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Juan’s professional life was marked by excellence and dedication. He devoted over three decades to United Launch Alliance (ULA), where his precision, commitment, and integrity contributed to a flawless record of mission success. He was formally recognized for 35 years of world-class rocket building—helping advance exploration, protect lives, and connect the world. His legacy lives on in every successful launch and in the pride of the Harlingen community he helped elevate.

His excellence was recognized through numerous awards, including the Lockheed Martin NOVA Award (1997), Just In Time Award – “Making a Difference” (2007), and multiple Certificates of Appreciation for his critical role in major contract completions and payload delivery. ULA honored him with a tribute recognizing his world-class rocket building and unwavering dedication, stating that his work helped build a legacy that “connects the world, explores the universe, and saves lives.”

Above all else, Juan was a family man. He was a provider, a protector, and a steady presence—faithful, caring, and always willing to go above and beyond for those he loved. He was married to his beloved wife, Letty Yzaguirre, with whom he built a life grounded in love, perseverance, and faith.

Juan leaves to cherish his memory, his mother Ninfa Yzaguirre, his loving wife, Letty Yzaguirre; his children: Jennifer Yzaguirre-Vigil (Julio Vigil), Shantel Yzaguirre Castillo (Danny Castillo), and Edgar Nicholas Perez (Ashley). He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Anjelica Alvarez (Raymond Alvarez), Christian Martinez, Isabella Vigil (Tyler Leyva), and Marianna Vigil. He was blessed to see the next generation through his great-grandchildren: Alivia Alvarez 9, Ray Ray (Boy) Alvarez 8, and Mia Alvarez 1 1/2.

He is also survived by his siblings Gloria (Domingo) Cortez, Leonardo Jr. (Diana) Yzaguirre, Frank (Griselda) Yzaguirre, Noemi (Jaime) Palomino, Gracie Yzaguirre (Itanael Robles), and Jerry Yzaguirre, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who were blessed by his wisdom and kindness.

Juan was preceded in death by his father, Leonardo Yzaguirre.

Juan was known for his brilliance, his beautiful penmanship as a left-handed writer, and his ability to master anything he set his mind to. He loved working outdoors, caring for horses, and taking on new skills— studying tirelessly until he perfected them. Whether learning knot-tying or researching his interests, YouTube became his modern-day library, a tool he used with curiosity and determination. His mind never stopped learning.

Most importantly, Juan was a man of faith. He believed in God’s promises and lived with quiet strength and conviction. His life reflected Proverbs 22:29: “Do you see a man skillful in his work? He will stand before kings.” Now, having fought the good fight and finished his race, Juan has been welcomed into eternal glory by the King of Kings, his Heavenly Father.

We celebrate Juan’s life not with sorrow, but with gratitude—for a life well lived, a race well run, and a legacy that will continue through generations.

His hands built, his mind mastered, his heart loved deeply, and his faith carried him home.

The Yzaguirre family will receive friends and relatives on Friday, February 6, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Buck Ashcraft San Benito Funeral Home, where full military honors will take place at 5:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 6:00 p.m.