Mario Andres Baroz, 65, of San Antonio, Texas, passed away August 26, 2025, in Van Buren County, Arkansas, following a motorcycle accident.

Born June 16, 1960 in San Antonio to Andres and Yoshiko Baroz, Mario lived a life defined by courage, generosity and an unshakable sense of adventure.

Mario spent his early years in Okinawa, Japan, before his family settled in El Paso, where he graduated from Andress High School.

In 1981, he joined the Air Force, beginning a prestigious 22-year career where he achieved the rank of Tech Sergeant. His dutiful service and deployment in the Gulf War earned him numerous awards and commendations, including a John Levitow Award––the highest Air Force honor for enlisted Professional Military Education––and Air Force Commendation and Aerial Achievement medals.

After retiring in 2003, Mario continued to serve his country as a civilian contractor in Afghanistan and Kuwait until his second retirement in 2024.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Susan; their four children, Stephanie, Cory, Andres and Deanna; his mother, Yoshiko; sisters, Margo Balderrama and Marie Mise; and brother, Marco.

A lifelong motorcycle enthusiast, Mario was a proud member of the Ducati Riders of San Antonio, where he led toy drives, fostered camaraderie among riders, and took part in countless group rides. His passion for adventure was matched only by his deep love for his family and unwavering support of their dreams.

Mario's kindness, confidence, and sense of humor touched everyone who knew him. He will be remembered as a man of integrity, encouragement, and adventure—a patriot, friend, brother, father, and husband with a bright mind and a heart of gold. Though his life was cut short, the impact he made will endure.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, October 20, 2025, at 2:15 p.m. at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd, in San Antonio, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. PJ's Children's Home, a safe and loving refuge for children in crisis at https://stpjhome.org .

Local arrangements under the direction of Coffman Funeral Home of Harrison, Arkansas. On-line condolences can be left at www.coffmanfh.com .