Andy Contreras

Austin/Weslaco- Andy Contreras, a beloved father and grandfather, was born on August 11, 1961, in Raymondville, Texas. He entered eternal rest on January 10, 2025, at his home in Austin.  

Andy’s family relocated to Weslaco when he was in middle school, and as a lifelong athlete, Andy immediately became active in sports. In high school, he stood out in both baseball and football. Andy’s involvement in the Future Farmers of America (FFA) was marked by raising steers that garnered accolades at the Youth Show and the RGV Livestock Show under the mentorship of Mr. Pete Abrigo and his father, Benny. After graduating from Weslaco High in 1979, Andy attended Pan American University and completed his training at TSTC in Harlingen, where he became a certified welder.

Andy embarked on a dynamic career in construction, initially starting at Varmicon Industries. His journey continued with the Texas Department of Public Safety, Highway Division, after which he settled in Austin as a construction supervisor at Aaron's Concrete Contractors. Renowned for his strong work ethic, Andy took immense pride in completing significant road construction projects that catered to the community’s needs.

Shortly after moving to Austin, Andy was out with some friends when he asked Rebecca Abeyta to dance. Being rushed by his friends, Andy left without Rebecca’s number, but he returned later that evening to find his soulmate still there. They were a perfect match and danced many nights away over the next thirty years. 

Rebecca embraced Andy’s children with unconditional love and gracefully took on the role of stepmom. Her positive outlook, compassionate nature, and ability to smile through difficult times became invaluable when Andy fell ill in 2023. He made the tough decision to retire, knowing he had Rebecca’s unwavering support.

Andy's friendly and outgoing nature created positive energy and earned him many friends. He was often seen with a warm smile, bringing joy to those around him. He had a lifelong passion for sports, playing softball throughout his adult years. His passion for golf was infectious, and family outings were often spent on the course with his friends and children. A staunch supporter of the Dallas Cowboys, Andy’s enthusiasm for the team was showcased in his man cave filled with memorabilia. He was also a dedicated fan of the Houston Astros and enjoyed collecting football and baseball cards, along with various caps and hats. Music was another of Andy’s passions; he loved to dance and was fond of various genres, including Mexican, Tejano, and country music. 

As a father and grandfather, Andy cherished his family above all else. He prioritized being an active presence in the lives of his children and grandchildren, traveling from Austin to Weslaco to attend their football, basketball, and softball games, as well as ballet recitals and birthday celebrations. His unconditional love for his grandchildren knew no limits, and he would go to great lengths to ensure they felt cherished and supported, joined by his energetic wife, Rebecca. Andy’s love for his family and the unwavering support of his wife, Rebecca, were evident in the close friendship they maintained with Andy’s former wife and the mother of their children, Frances.

Andy is preceded in death by his loving wife, Rebecca Abeyta; his parents, Bernabe “Benny” and Maria Inez Contreras; paternal grandparents, Anestacio and Guadalupe Contreras; maternal grandparents, Guadalupe and Juanita Garcia; and father-in-law Robert Abeyta. 

He is survived by his children, son Andrew Contreras (Vanessa) and daughter Amanda Marie Contreras (Carmela), brother Bernarbie “Beaver” Contreras Jr. (Eddie), grandchildren, Ava Lorraine Contreras, Ryan Andrew Contreras, Aaron Andrew Contreras, Noah Andrew Anestacio Contreras, Ayden and Agustin Gutierrez, aunts, Aurora Quintanilla (Lalo), Pam Garcia (Paul), mother-in-law, Charlice Ann Abeyta, sister in law, Roberta Ann Wehbe (Najib), brother in law, Robert Anthony Abeyta, former wife and lifelong friend, Frances Amanda Contreras, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

The memory of Andy Contreras will forever resonate in the hearts of those fortunate enough to know him. He leaves behind a legacy marked by love, hard work, and dedication to family and community.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 31, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with a Holy Rosary at 6 PM at McCaleb Funeral Home. Mass will be celebrated on February 1, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 109 S Illinois Ave, Weslaco, TX 78596. Serving as pallbearers will be Andrew Contreras, Hector Cantu, Homer Escobar, Jaime Leal, David Caballero, Joe Mendiola, Edward Perez, and David “D.J.” Caballero Jr. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Andy's grandsons, Ryan and Aaron Contreras.