Regino M. Rios

Regino Mendieta Rios, known to many as Gino, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on October 1st, 2024, just 7 days shy of his 90th birthday. Gino was born October 8th, 1934, in Taft, Texas to parents Porfirio Rios and Lucia Mendieta Rios. Growing up he traveled through the state of Texas working as a cotton picker along with his parents and siblings. At the age of 18, he committed to proudly serving his country by joining the United States Army. He served during the Korean era and stayed active in the Army Reserve through 1961. 

 On November 3rd, 1957, Gino married Eva Angelita Escamilla. On November 27th, 1958, their first child Reggie was born, followed by their three additional children, Luci, Rick, and Laura. Gino and Eva were married 64 years before she was called home by Our Lord, almost 3 years ago. 

 As industry grew in the local area, Gino established his career as a pipefitter, and material coordinator in the South Texas area. He worked many different projects working for Brown & Root, Beacon, Bay, and other well-known companies. He was fortunate to travel to Russia and work on a project with Bay, making it the highlight of his career. 

 Gino spent his retired years taking care of his beloved wife Eva, fishing at his favorite spot, Indian Point pier with his fishing buddies, grandson, and many friends he made as he welcomed everyone there. He enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren. He always looked forward to meeting his buddies for morning coffee at Whataburger.

 The BIGGEST surprise in Gino’s life took place in 2022. Gino met his beautiful twin daughters Maryln Carter and Mary Ellen DeBerry, who throughout the years they, nor Gino knew of each other. The twins who were born in Germany during Gino’s early military years, were able to meet their true father, and Gino was able to meet two loving daughters. 

 Gino was an avid fisherman, sharing his catch with family, friends, and neighbors. He enjoyed hunting. He LOVED to show his moves on the dance floor and drinking his evening sippy, Budweiser. He was the life of the party, and always had a story. Gino was loved by many. He will be truly missed. 

 Rest easy Dad, Grandpa, our GOAT (Greatest One of All Time). 

 Gino was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, wife Eva Angelita Escamilla, son, Regino Rios, Jr., daughter Maryln Carter, and grandson Chad Carter, Jr. He is survived by his brother Mike (Elva) Rios, bother-in-law Joe Escamilla, his daughter Luci Rios, son Rick Rios, daughter Laura (Jesus) Zamora, daughter Mary Ellen DeBerry, 7 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, 6 great-great grandchildren, his nieces, nephews, and friends, his furry buddies Max, Hunter, and Romeo.

 Visitation will be held from 5:00 – 7:00 PM, with a rosary beginning at 7:00 PM on Sunday, October 6th, 2024, at Winsteads’ Funeral Home, 500 Wildcat Drive. Final viewing will be Monday, October 7th at 11:00 AM. There will be a procession departing at approximately 12:45 PM to the Funeral Mass celebration which will begin at 1:00 PM at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church, 1008 Austin St., Portland, Texas with interment to follow at The Palms Memorial Gardens.

Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of the professionals at Winsteads' Funeral Home. (361) 643-6564 www.winsteadsfuneralhome.com