Robert Michael Figueroa, Sr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and cherished member of his community, passed away peacefully with family by his side on September 1, 2026, at the age of 82.

Robert was born in Refugio, Texas, on March 18, 1944, to Betty (Pena) and Vicente Figueroa. Robert was an amazing man whose strength and kindness touched the lives of all who knew him. His love for God and people, especially his family and friends, was at the heart of who he was. He will be remembered for his smile he gave so freely, the memories he created with his family, and the special place he held in the hearts of those who knew him.

In his younger years, Robert was known for his passion for cooking and barbecuing. One of his nicknames was, “The Barbecue Man,” a name which reflected the joy he took in preparing food for others. He formerly owned and operated Tamale Hut in Aransas Pass and Robert's Spicy Kitchen in Ingleside in the 1980s. After his retirement, he took pride in babysitting his youngest grandsons and was affectionately known as “Pa Robert” by teachers and staff at Methodist Day School. Robert was also considered a “Portland Legend” as the man who walked and/or rode his bike for miles down Broadway Blvd, smiling, waving, and brightening the day of everyone who drove by him.

Robert was preceded in death by his mother, Betty Pena Ruiz; his father, Vicente Figueroa; his brother, Michael Figueroa; his stepfather, Santos Ruiz; and his daughter-in-law, Nahid Figueroa.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his loving wife of 64 years, Nelda Figueroa; sons, Robert Figueroa, Jr., and Rudy Figueroa; his daughter, Norma Jean (Albert) Garza; sisters, Gloria (George) Swank, and Mary Ellen (Jerry) Swanson; grandchildren, Nicholas Figueroa, Brittany Figueroa (Alex) Barrera, Courtney Figueroa, Brandon Figueroa, Brianna (Tyler) Turner, Albert Luis Garza, Jr. and Noah Garza; numerous great-grandchildren; and nieces, and nephews.

Although Robert is no longer with us, his love and memory will live on through the many lives he touched. His family will carry him with them in their hearts and treasure the memories of the wonderful man he was.

Visitation will begin Friday, September 4, 2026, 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Resthaven Funeral Home Chapel, Aransas Pass. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, September 5, 2026, 11:00 AM at the Resthaven Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow in Prairie View Cemetery, Aransas Pass.

Guestbook available online at www.resthavenfunerals.com

Arrangements and care entrusted to Resthaven Funeral Home, Aransas Pass.