Christopher Michael Clemenza, 44, of Cibolo, Texas, passed away at his home, leaving behind a lifetime of love, memories, and a family who will forever miss him.

Chris was born in Odessa, Texas, on June 25th 1982 to Anthony Michael Clemenza and Becky Sue Clemenza. He was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, friend, and soldier whose presence touched countless lives. He was a man who could be described in many ways: well-spoken, hard-headed, down-to-earth, intelligent, charismatic, and fiercely loyal, but to those who loved him most, he was simply Chris: a man who loved his family with everything he had.

Chris and his wife, April, first knew one another as acquaintances in high school. Their paths eventually brought them back together when Chris was deployed to Iraq for the second time, and what began as a pen-pal friendship grew into something much deeper. They shared nearly 20 years of marriage, countless memories, challenges, adventures, laughter, and a love that remained steadfast through it all.

Chris was a dedicated United States Army soldier who proudly served his country throughout his career. He completed three deployments to Iraq, one deployment to Afghanistan, multiple tours in South Korea, and a tour in Kuwait. He began his military career as an Artilleryman at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. He later completed a special assignment as a recruiter in Olympia, Washington, before reclassifying as an Army Career Counselor. He served at Fort Hood, Texas, and ultimately at his most recent duty station at Fort Sam Houston with Army South.

Throughout his distinguished military career, Chris earned numerous awards and decorations, including the Combat Action Badge, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, and many other awards recognizing his dedication, sacrifice, and service to his country.

But as proud as Chris was of his military service, his greatest accomplishments were found at home.

Chris was the best husband and father. When April's health made it necessary for her to leave the workforce, Chris became the sole income provider for their family. He carried that responsibility without hesitation, doing everything he could to make sure his family was cared for. Even when his Army career called him overseas, Chris made deliberate choices to put his family first. He volunteered for several year-long overseas assignments so that April and Nicholas could remain in San Antonio, close to their family and the medical care April needed.

Chris was happiest when he was with the people he loved. He enjoyed watching football—especially his beloved Dallas Cowboys—barbecuing, working out, playing video games with his son, and spending time with his family. Some of his most treasured moments were simply the ordinary ones: laughing with his family, cheering for his team, sharing a meal, or sitting beside his son playing video games.

To Nicholas, Chris was not only his father, but his protector, teacher, role model, and best friend. The love between a father and son was something Chris treasured deeply, and the memories they created together will remain forever.

Chris is preceded in death by his father, Anthony Clemenza, his grandparents, Nicholas Clemenza and Betty Clemenza.

He is survived by his beloved wife, April Clemenza; his son, Nicholas Clemenza; his mother, Becky Clemenza; his sister, Danielle Elder, brother-in-law Colten Elder, and their children Adalyn, Bailey, and Westen; his brother, Jon Clemenza; as well as his aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, friends, and the many people whose lives he touched throughout his life and military career.

Chris leaves behind a legacy of love, sacrifice, service, strength, and devotion to family. He gave so much of himself to his country, but the greatest gift he gave was the love he poured into his family.

His family will continue to honor his memory by living their lives with the same compassion, loyalty, strength, and grace that Chris showed to those around him.

Though his time with us was far too short, the impact of his life will last forever.

Rest easy, Chris. Your mission is complete. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.

Funeral Services

Funeral services will be held at Dodd Field Chapel, 5584 Dodd Blvd., Fort Sam Houston, Texas on September 9, 2026, at 9:15 a.m., followed by a graveside military honors ceremony at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery at 11:00 a.m.