Robert Meza, lovingly known to many as Capt. Robert, passed away on August 26, 2026, in Corpus Christi, Texas. He was born on July 9, 1951, in Steele, Missouri, and lived a life marked by service, faith, humor, and a deep love for the water, his family, and the people who were fortunate enough to know him.

Robert served his country in the United States Army, and retired after 21 years of service, a chapter of his life that reflected his steady commitment and strength. He attended Weslaco High School, where he was a football player, and went on to study at the University of Maryland. Over the years, he also served as a Captain and worked as a Sea Academy instructor, roles that suited both his leadership and his gift for teaching others.

At the heart of Robert’s life was his family. He shared a lasting bond with his high school sweetheart, Maria Villanueva Meza, his loving wife for almost 55 years. Their enduring marriage stood as a beautiful testament to devotion, partnership, and shared life across the decades. For 22 years Robert and Maria made Rockport their home, a place that fit naturally with the life they loved. Robert was a proud member of Fisherman’s Chapel in Port O’Connor, a connection that meant a great deal to him. He loved fishing, hunting, and He especially enjoyed teaching people how to fish and how to navigate coastal waters, sharing not only knowledge but also the joy he found in being outdoors and on the water.

Those who knew Robert will remember a man with a great sense of humor, a gift for storytelling, and an easy way of making people laugh. He loved telling jokes, and singing while playing guitar, and bringing warmth to the room with his presence. He absolutely loved the Dallas Cowboys, and his enthusiasm for them was part of the spirit that made him so memorable. Even his greeting carried his trademark energy—his typical answer to a phone call was, “Let’s go get’em,” a phrase that captured his optimism and drive.

Above all, Robert was a family man. and he will be greatly missed by so many.

He is survived by his high school sweetheart, and wife of almost 55 years, Maria Meza: He is also survived by his twin sons, Robert Meza Jr. (Julie), and Francisco Meza (Heather); his grandchildren, Havin Proud, Emily Perry, and Nigel Perry; and his great-grandson, Alistair Albritton.

He is also survived by his siblings, Jose Alcantar (Nellie), Dora Tamez (Domingo), Bonifacio Meza, Maggie Gonzales (Homer) Luis Meza (Rosa): Beatriz Alcantar, and Gavina Arce.; numerous cousins, and special friends. Robert’s family and friends circle was one of enduring importance to him, and the love he gave them will remain a lasting part of his legacy.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Natalia Valdez; his brothers, Ezequiel and Isidro Arce. All of their memories remained part of the story of his life, and now he is reunited with those who went before him.

Robert Meza will be remembered as a devoted husband, proud father and grandfather, veteran, instructor, captain, sports fan, musician, and outdoorsman. Most of all, he will be remembered as a man who loved generously, taught gladly, laughed easily, and brought people together with stories, songs, and the simple invitation to head forward with heart. His memory will remain a blessing to all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Robert Meza's name to FlatsWorthy https://flatsworthy.com/donate-to-flatsworthy/, or any fish conservation organization.

An inurnment will be held on Friday, September 11, 2026 at 2:00 pm at the Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery in Corpus Christi, Texas. A celebration of life will follow at Charlie Marshall Funeral Home in Rockport, Texas from 4:00 pm until 8:00 pm.