A Quiet Strength, An Enduring Legacy: Remembering Cleto Escobedo III

It’s with a profound sense of loss, and honestly, a heavy heart, that we share the news of Cleto Escobedo III's passing. He left us on Friday, November 8, 2025, right there in his cherished Orwigsburg home, at the age of 73. He wasn’t alone, not for a moment; his devoted wife, Maria, and their loving family were gathered close, a comfort that, well, you could say brought a quiet dignity to his final hours. It was a peaceful farewell, a gentle closing to a chapter, yet the space he leaves in the hearts of those who knew him is, simply put, immeasurable.

Born under the expansive skies of El Paso, Texas, on May 12, 1952, Cleto was the beloved son of Cleto Escobedo Jr. and Eva (Rodriguez) Escobedo. One imagines those early years, those roots, truly shaped the man he grew to be—a man of unwavering principles and a deep, quiet resolve. He truly believed in the call of duty, and it was this conviction that led him to serve his nation with honor. A proud U.S. Navy veteran, Cleto answered the call during the Vietnam War, an experience that undoubtedly forged much of his resilient spirit. He wasn’t one for grand pronouncements, but the experiences, the camaraderie, the sacrifices made—they became an indelible part of who he was, quietly influencing his path forward.

After his distinguished service, Cleto returned home, not just to embark on a career but, perhaps more importantly, to build a life. He dedicated decades as a skilled engineer at a local firm here in Orwigsburg, approaching his work with meticulous care and, dare we say, a methodical grace. Yet, his truest masterpiece, his most profound creation, was his family. He found his lifelong partner in Maria, and together, for many beautiful years, they cultivated a home filled with love and warmth. Their two wonderful children, Dr. Elena Rodriguez and Cleto Escobedo IV, thrived under their guidance. And then came the grandchildren—Isabella, Mateo, Liam, and Ava—who, as grandchildren so often do, utterly captured his heart. He was, in truth, a doting presence, finding immense joy in their innocent laughter and boundless curiosity.

Beyond the steadfast commitments to his work and family, Cleto was a man who found deep contentment in life's simpler pleasures. He adored the tranquil solitude of the lake, the meditative challenge of casting a fishing line—a true passion. And golf? Well, he spent countless happy hours on the greens, forever chasing that elusive perfect swing, but more so, cherishing the camaraderie of friends. Music, too, was a constant companion in his home, a vibrant soundtrack to a life lived fully and authentically. He was a comforting presence, perhaps not always the loudest voice, but his wisdom, his steady hand, his unwavering support—these were felt profoundly by all who were fortunate enough to know him. He was a beloved brother to Sofia Ramirez and Ricardo Escobedo, a mentor to some, a steadfast friend to many. He genuinely was, honestly, a good man, someone who made the world just a little bit brighter simply by being in it.

Cleto now joins his parents in eternal rest, but his spirit, his rich legacy, it undeniably lives on. His family extends a heartfelt invitation to friends and loved ones to gather and honor his memory. A viewing will be held... followed by a Mass of Christian Burial... and then, with full military honors, interment at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, and this is an important request, the family kindly asks that you consider a donation to a local veterans' charity—a truly fitting tribute, we believe, to a man who gave so much of himself. His story, when you truly consider it, is a powerful testament to the quiet strength of a life lived with integrity, profound love, and genuine, unwavering care for others. He will be deeply, profoundly missed.