Carlos “Charlie” Cardenas Falcon
Carlos “Charlie” Cardenas Falcon, passed away on December 27, 2023, in Dallas, TX, at the age of 57. Born on May 14, 1966, in Ft. Stockton, TX, Charlie lived a life marked by service, love, and laughter, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Charlie grew up in Andrews, TX, and graduated from Andrews High School in 1984. He then, proudly served his country in the United States Air Force as a Military Police at Sheppard AFB. His dedication and skills were recognized through numerous awards, including the “Most Valuable Peace Keeper Award” for Air Training Command. His military career included deployments to Saudi Arabia during Operation Desert Storm and Desert Calm, culminating in an honorable discharge in July 1992 to pursue further education.
He attended Texas A&M University-Kingsville, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture Business in 1996. Charlie’s passion for education began at Andrews ISD as a DAEP coordinator/ teacher. He then attended Sul Ross University, where he received a Master of Education Degree in School Administration. During his career in administration he served as assistant principal at both Abell JH and Nimitz JH. Charlie then returned to serve the community of Andrews as the Texas AgriLife Extension Service Ag Agent. The call to return to education was strong, and in 2010 he established the Andrews Education Center (AEC) for AISD and acted as principal until January 1, 2019.
Charlie had a servant’s heart, and God had called him to lead and serve Andrews, by running for County Judge. He was sworn into office January 1, 2019, he was re-elected and began his second term in January 2023. He proudly served the community for five years. Charlie’s passion for his hometown and his love for people allowed him to exceptionally fulfill his role as Andrews County Judge to the fullest.
Charlie’s faith was the foundation of his existence. His love for God guided every aspect of his life. He married his soulmate, Trina, on October 10, 2003, and together they built a life filled with joy and love. The love they shared was an inspiration to everyone that knew them. They have instilled that same love in the hearts of their children and grandchildren.
Charlie’s fun and spirited personality was as steadfast as the weather, and his big laugh and constant smile were his trademarks. He never met a stranger and treated everyone as a friend… or as he liked to call them, “Buddy.” Charlie was happiest when he was hanging out with his family or on the road camping with Trina. He loved music, and you could always bet he was ready to sing or dance. He enjoyed riding his horses, roping, and working in the hayfield at the farm. His work ethic was unmatched; “Cheerful in all weathers. Never shirked a task. Splendid behavior”.
He was a cherished husband, father, brother, and grandfather. His legacy will live on through his wife, Trina Falcon; his sons, Charlie Falcon and wife Jailey, Blaine Chavez and wife McKenzie, Cody Falcon and wife Lori, and Clay Falcon; his daughters, Ashley Newbrough and husband Kyle, and Raegan Carranza and husband Louis; His brother, Ernest Falcon and wife Selma; and his adored grandchildren, Landon, Braden, Laeden, Landrie, Noah, Lucas, Kyley, Ava, Jaylynn, River, Isabella, Gentry, Hudsyn, and Aaron who knew him as Grandbuddy/Papa.
Charlie was preceded in death by his parents, Honorato and Edith Cardenas Falcon, his sister, Ercilia “Effie” Gonzalez, his brother, Rumaldo Falcon, and his niece, Ambera Tuck Gonzalez. These beloved family members no doubt welcomed him with open arms into eternal rest.
The world is a little less bright without Charlie’s presence, but his spirit will continue to inspire all who knew him. His legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering faith will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and the many lives he touched. Charlie’s story is one of a life well-lived, a life of purpose, and a life that will be profoundly missed.
Family and friends gathered to celebrate his life at 10:00AM, Saturday, December 30, 2023, at the Andrews High School Performance Center, with Pastor Brant O’Connor officiating, and special words spoken by Kerry Pack. Arrangements are under the personal care of McNett Funeral home.
