Feliciano Guzman

Feliciano “Guz” Guzman entered eternal rest on December 19th, 2024, at the age of 87 with his loving and devoted wife, Maria Louisa, by his side in their Elgin, Texas home. 

Guz exemplified diligence, strength, pride, and devotion. He was renowned for his love of music and often spotted dancing alone to the sounds of his beloved mariachis. 

Born in McAllen, Texas to his parents, Lorenzo “Lencho” and Severina “Tita” Guzman, he was affectionately called “Chano” by his family. As the eldest child of five, he was often sought out for guidance and did not take that responsibility lightly. Two of his brothers, whom he loved greatly, preceded in death, Eloy and Luis Guzman, followed his path to serve their country with military careers. Throughout his life, he maintained a deep and loving relationship with his only sister, Lucia, and despite distances, he held his youngest and surviving brother, Mateo, close to his heart. In addition to being survived by the wife he cherished and two siblings, he is also survived by his children who he loved very much, Olivia (Tommy), Michael (Dotty), and Veronica (Eddie). Surviving grandchildren, who he was so proud of, are Stathis (Wesley), Cassandra (Daniel), and Cameron. Surviving great-grandchildren, who brought him memorable smiles, are Lola, Triss, Phoebe, and Harper. Guz also has many surviving nephews, nieces, great-nephews, great-nieces, and in-laws he held dear. 

At the age of 17, he signed up to join the U.S. Army and soon after received his diploma from McAllen High School. He proudly dedicated 28 years and served at many places during his career, including Germany and Vietnam. He was notably recognized for his physical and mental strength, leadership, and intelligence. Always ambitious, he received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Campbell University and a Master’s degree from Pepperdine University during his service. 

Following his military career, where he attained the Army’s highest enlisted rank of Sergeant Major (SGM/CSM), Guz continued to serve his country working for the state of Texas and federal government. While living in Northern Virgina, he made a respected name for himself as a Money Laundering Analyst for Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FINCEN) followed by working as an Intelligence Research Specialist for the U.S Customs (EPIC) in El Paso, Texas where he retired achieving a grade of GS-15. 

Physically fit throughout his life, Guz was a long-time marathon runner and continued running until his early 70’s. An injury moved his focus to long-distance bike runs, which he did until his late 70’s to include participating in the MS150, a 150-mile bike ride. Guz was a devout Catholic, member of the Knights of Columbus, and a Fourth Degree Knight. 

A Visitation will be at Providence-Jones Funeral Home in Elgin, Texas on Friday, January 3rd, from 6pm-8pm with a Rosary at 7pm. A Funeral Mass will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church on Saturday, January 4th, at 12 pm, also in Elgin. 

Pallbearers will be his son, Michael Guzman, nephews, Hector Hernandez (godson), Arthur Hernandez, and Rick Diaz, brother-in-law, Hector Delgado, and grandson, Cameron Connolly. 

For his extensive and profound sacrifices during his Army career, four tours during the Vietnam War where he was awarded the Bronze Star for Gallantry, as one of the first Special Forces and Airborne Paratroopers, years of dedication earning Master Parachutist Badge, Scuba Dive Badge, Combat Infantry Badge, and Army Republic of Vietnam Parachute Badge, Guz will be provided military honors and be interred at Arlington National Cemetery. 

In honor of Guz, his family would like you to please consider a donation to the St. Joseph’s Indian School, Wounded Warrior Project, or Sacred Heart Church of Elgin, Texas, in lieu of flowers. Veterans Charity - Non Profit Organization for Veterans | Wounded Warrior Project St. Joseph’s Indian School Sacred Heart Church of Elgin

He will be greatly missed and always loved.