Juan Esteban Gauna of D'Hanis, age 63, passed away Sunday, April 13, 2025.

Born Nov. 18, 1961, in Hondo, he was the son of Ernesto D. and Marcelina Martinez Gauna.

Juan had a unique personality. He was funny—he loved to make everyone laugh. Juan first attended school in Hondo and in the 8th grade moved to D'Hanis where he finished his education. He worked in the fields with his parents at a young age. Juan worked at D'Hanis Brick and Tile for many years as fireman, kiln repairman and laborer.

At the age of six he learned to play the accordian with his dad's help. He became a great accordian player and continued until he got sick and could no longer play. He was invited to play at many places and events, including for a time with the popular Los Palaminos band.

He is preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Maria Rosa Obregon (her husband Jose) and Deanna Gauna Obregon; and sister-in-law, Sylvia Ann Gauna.

Surviving are his son, Juan Anthony Gauna; step-daughter, Jessica Gomez; five grandchildren; brothers, Ernesto M. Gauna and Cruz Gauna of D'Hanis; sisters, Dominga Valdez (Ernesto) of Dallas and Arlene Hernandez (Randy) of Poteet; and many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends will gather at Guinn-Horger Chapel on Saturday, May 3, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. to visit and share memories. Recitation of the Rosary will be at 1:00 p.m.

GUINN-HORGER