Luis C. Santoyo

Luis C. Santoyo July 29, 1935 - May 17, 2015 Luis C. Santoyo of Marlin, Texas, passed away peacefully, surrounded by many of his family members, Sunday, May 17, 2015. Services will be 10:30 a.m., Saturday, May 30, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Chapel with burial to follow at Waco Memorial Park. Rosary will be at 6:00 p.m., and visitation will follow, Friday, May 29, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Chapel Luis was born July 29, 1935, in Mexico City, to Wenceslaus and Esperanza Santoyo. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Ramona Santoyo and brothers Tony and Michael Santoyo. He is survived by his 6 children and their mother Rebecca Gutierrez. Children: Yolanda Santoyo, TX Ramona Gregg and husband Glenn, CT, Luis Santoyo, Jr. and wife Rose, TX, Susan Jahanian and husband Bahman, TX, Richard Santoyo and wife Jennifer, TX & Mary Margaret Santoyo,TX. Grandchildren, Calvin, Gabriella, Rachel Fabrizio, Nina, James Birke, Zoe, Austin, Cooper, Rachel Michael, Audrey, Roman, Paul, Sophia, Julia, Tony and Maxximus. Great grandchildren: Mathieu, Connor, Nicholas, Cosma, William, Anina, Ethan and one expected soon. Sisters, Mary Salazar and husband Alfonso IL, Esperanza Barrett and husband Raul, CA Brothers, Manuel Santoyo, Emilio Santoyo and wife Alma TX, Richard Santoyo and wife Joyce TX. After serving in the army, Luis attended the Chicago Art Institute. He relocated his family to Austin and went to work as a graphic artist for The University of Texas and the Texas Department of Agriculture. In the 1960s he was a regular guest on KTBC's Uncle Jay Show, allowing the children to create a scribble on a large pad that he would then elaborate on, to bring animals and characters to life, much to their delight. He owned several galleries and sign companies in Austin and Waco. His art is in private collections and has been on display in several art shows, including one-man shows and most recently in the 5 x7 show at The Contemporary Museum in Austin. He recently collaborated with his youngest daughter, Mary, to publish a book of poems entitled, "Life Without an Eraser", which featured several of his art works. He enjoyed volunteering at the public schools, opening and engaging young artist's minds through a small program called "Art 360." Luis was a member of St. Francis on the Brazos Catholic Church in Waco. Luis was a wonderful father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, cousin, uncle, and friend. He loved life and it reflected in his countless hours of painting, playing golf, teaching, dancing, entertaining, traveling, cooking, playing the piano & volunteering. He was a man of many talents, from artist to entrepreneur. Generous, kind, talented, enthusiastic, determined, full of love & laughter, these are the traits that exemplify his persona. Always an optimist, even when faced with the heaviest of burdens; His advice was often sought and his support was often lent because family was a priority. Although legally blind for several years, he spoke of being able to smell colors as he painted and joked of beating the pants off his sons at a friendly game of golf, "if you just point me in the right direction." When asked how he was doing, he would always say, "I'm still here." And here, he will always remain, in his paintings, in our memories and in our hearts. The family gratefully accepts and thanks you for your prayers, condolences and memories. Jesus said "a new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, just as I have loved you." Pallbearers are James Gregg, Audrey Jahanian, Calvin Smith, Roman Santoyo, Paul Santoyo, Austin Santoyo, Cooper Santoyo, Julia Newhouse and Tony Newhouse. Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice or send to your favorite high school arts program. Keep art alive beginning with the children. The family invites you to leave a message or memory in our "Memorial Guestbook" at www.WHBfamily.com.