[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 128 (Friday, July 28, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1093]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           RECOGNIZING THE LIFE OF ALBERTO PATRICIO CARDENAS

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                           HON. HENRY CUELLAR

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, July 28, 2017

  Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the life of 
Alberto Patricio Cardenas of Laredo, Texas, who proudly served the 
people of Laredo in public and higher education for nearly forty-four 
years.
  Alberto Patricio Cardenas was born on March 17th, 1937 in Laredo, 
Texas. After graduating from high school at the age of 16, Alberto 
began his studies at The Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas 
where he would successfully graduate in four years with a degree in 
history and as a member of the Corps of Cadets.
  After college, Alberto began a 13-year career with the Laredo 
Independent School District, where he taught students at Urbahn 
Elementary, Lamar Middle School, Nixon High School, and Martin High 
School. He earned his Master of Education degree from Texas A&M 
University and thereafter was recruited to be a faculty member of 
Laredo Junior College where he would meet the love of his life, Maria 
de la Luz.
  Mr. Cardenas spent the next 31 years serving as a counselor and 
eventually Director of the Counseling and Assessment Center at Laredo 
Community College. He influenced thousands of students by helping them 
navigate their degree plans, personal challenges, and by teaching 
multiple courses. He also raised money for scholarships, organized 
school floats for parades, and counseled student organizations.
  Mr. Cardenas lived a long and service filled life. Not only was he an 
accomplished educator, but a dedicated community leader. He served in 
the United States Air Force Reserve, on the Board of Directors and as 
President of the Laredo Boys & Girls Club, as President of the Laredo 
Chapter of the International Good Neighbor Council, and on the Laredo-
Webb County Child Welfare Board. He also was a member of the Equestrian 
Order of the Holy Sepulcher of Jerusalem for 15 years, achieving the 
rank of Knight Commander with Star.
  Above all, Alberto was a committed husband and father to Maria de la 
Luz (Lucy) Rodriguez and their three children Cristina Doda, Alberto 
Jr., and Maradelle Lilliam.
  Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have the opportunity to recognize and 
honor Alberto Patricio Cardenas for his many years of service to the 
city of Laredo.

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