Parents: Gilberto Saenz Jr. and Maria Luisa Hernandez Saenz
Born: November 30, 1953 – Died Apr 11, 2025
Married: Imelda Garza
Children:
Married: Griselda Cardona
Children: Jennifer Lynn Saenz (Jan 7, 1972)
Veronica Maria Saenz
Gilberto Saenz IV
Angelica Maria Saenz
Bio:
Gilberto “Blackie” Saenz III
Gilberto “Blackie” Saenz III was born on November 30, 1953, in Alice, Texas, to Gilberto “Blackie” Saenz Jr. and Maria Luisa Hernandez Saenz. Throughout his life, he embodied the values of family, service, hard work, and loyalty, leaving a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
A proud graduate of St. Louis High School’s Class of 1971, Gilberto excelled in athletics from an early age. His competitive spirit and determination became legendary when he qualified for both the Golden Gloves Boxing Tournament and the Conference Wrestling Championships on the same evening. Choosing boxing, he forfeited the wrestling competition and went on to capture the State Golden Gloves Championship title. Though small in stature, his strength and tenacity earned him the nickname “Mighty Mouse.”
In 1972, Gilberto answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. He served with honor, discipline, and dedication, eventually becoming a Squad Leader and attaining the rank of Corporal. His military service reflected the same principles of commitment and integrity that guided him throughout his life.
Following his military service, Gilberto established Blackie’s Tax Service, a business he owned and operated for more than 45 years. Through his professionalism, dedication, and genuine care for others, he earned the trust and respect of generations of clients throughout the Alice community.
Known for his larger-than-life personality, Gilberto had a passion for family, friendship, and Tejano music. Whether playing a competitive game of pool, sharing stories with friends, or dancing and singing at family gatherings, he had a unique ability to bring people together. His sense of humor, welcoming spirit, and love for life made him the center of countless celebrations and created memories that will be cherished for generations.
Above all, Gilberto was devoted to his family. He instilled in his children the importance of honesty, respect, punctuality, hard work, and loyalty. His wisdom, guidance, and unwavering support served as a foundation for those he loved most.
He shared 37 years of marriage with the love of his life, Criselda “Cris” Saenz. Together they built a loving family and raised their children: Jennifer Lynn Saenz (Ronny), Gilberto Saenz IV (Rebeca), Veronica Maria Saenz, Angelica Maria Saenz, Jezebelle I. Rubinos, and Shawn Jacob Contreras. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought him immense pride and joy and were among his greatest blessings.
Gilberto was preceded in death by his parents, Gilberto “Blackie” Saenz Jr. and Maria Luisa Saenz, and his sisters, Sylvia Cisneros Franco and Belia Anguiano. He is lovingly remembered by his wife, children, sister Rose Mary Paez, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and countless friends whose lives were enriched by his presence.
A Marine, businessman, athlete, family man, and friend, Gilberto “Blackie” Saenz III leaves behind a legacy of service, perseverance, laughter, and love. His influence continues to live on through the family he cherished, the community he served, and the countless lives he touched.
Saenz Reunion 2024 