Dr. Alberto Alfonso Besteiro, 82, of Austin entered into eternal rest, surrounded by family members on March 17, 2012. He was born in Brownsville on December 10, 1929. He graduated from St. Joseph Academy in Brownsville where he was captain of the football team. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology from Texas A&M in 1955 and was a member of the Corps. In 1968, he received a Masters of Arts degree in Education from Texas A&I University in Kingsville. Albert received his Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education Administration from the University of New Mexico in 1982.
He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Olivia and their beloved children, Albert Jr., John, Sonya and their very special grandson, Albert Dylan Besteiro and his mother, Lupita Gomez. He was preceded in death by his parents Juan and Lilia Besteiro and his in-laws, Alfonso and Amelia Alamía.
He was a veteran of the U.S. Army Infantry during the Korean War. Albert personified the essence of a teacher throughout his life; he encouraged and empowered people to reach their highest potential.
He was an ambassador of the community, where he served as a member, officer and consultant on numerous local, state and national boards. He also served as an elected official on the city council and Brownsville ISD School Board, on which he served as president.
He was a proud native son of Brownsville, who was so committed to his community that becoming president of Texas Southmost College, where he served for eight years, was one of his proudest achievements. The core of Albert’s work was always geared to the student, by assuring a quality education, providing equitable funding and exposing students to new experiences such as hosting visits from two sitting United States presidents, Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan.
He was a humble and honorable man who embraced people from all walks of life. For those who knew Albert, know that there was nothing he cherished or enjoyed more than his family, storytelling and the love of God.
A wake will be held from 6 - 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 21 at Harrell Funeral Home, Kyle with a Holy Rosary recited at 7 p.m. by Deacon John Riojas. In celebration of Albert’s life a Holy Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Thursday, March 22 by Reverend Kirby Garner at Santa Cruz Catholic Church in Buda
The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to the staff at Stonebridge Health Center for their nurturing care. A special thanks to Carlos and Maria Becerra for their loving care. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to either the Sacred Heart Men’s Club scholarship fund or the Saint Vincent de Paul Society, both at Santa Cruz Church.
