Rey was a happy, funny, caring and sensitive person. He loved rock and roll music. Whenever he heard music he liked he would move his eyes and shoulder to the beat. When Rey turned 59 and I called to wish him a happy birthday, he dragged his voice. When I asked why he was doing this he said this way it will take longer before I turn 60.

 Rey claimed that he was reborn on May 31, 2005 when he received a kidney transplant. He and Debbie would celebrate his new life every year. Last I heard Rey was four years old. Rey and Debbie were so grateful that Rey had a second chance in live that they decided to help others. Together they founded Linking Lives Support Group which educates the public about organ donations.

 Rey was a very proud Army Veteran. He always talked about the first time someone stepped up to him to thank him for serving our country. He said this was one of the most emotional times of his life.

 Rey loved his son, Anthony, granddaughter Briana, brothers and sisters and mother and dad. He had a special connection to his twin brother, Rolando, and often said how much he loved him, and how they often felt each other’s pain.

 Rey always said I love you before hanging up the phone or saying good bye. He said he wanted to make sure that when he was not here anymore, people would always know how much he loved them. He was very considerate and always remembered special occasions. Rey was always the first to call me on my birthday, mother’s day and other occasions. We would always sing to each other on our birthdays. This year there was no call/no song.

 When our mother passed away, Rey said to me that he did not think he could live without mom. He said he was not afraid of dying because mom was waiting for him. Four months later, Rey went in for a triple bypass and ended up in heaven. I would like to believe that GOD knew what Rey meant when he said this. Rey left this home and went to a more peaceful one.

 I want to acknowledge and thank Debbie for loving our brother, for being there for him, and for helping him with his health. Rey always said he did not know what he would do without Debbie. They had their ups and downs like everyone else but through it all he called her “His Protector”.

 Debbie and Rey have been married 13 years. I never knew what soul mates were until I met Rey and Debbie. I say met because Rey changed when he met Debbie. They took care of each other. When Rey needed a kidney she set out to find him one and did not stop until he received one. Rey said Debbie changed him for the best and he was always grateful.

 We want to thank all the prayer groups in Austin, El Paso, and California. We also want to thank Debbie and Rey’s friends for their prayers, for making sure Rey was never alone when he was in the hospital and for loving him. Rey always knew he was surrounded by love.

Thanks to the Kupfers for loving Rey and welcoming him into their family.