Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy...  1 Peter 1:8

Cameron Austin Canales stepped into heaven unexpectedly on February 23, 2022, at home in Columbus, Georgia.

He was born to loving parents Rhonda and Paul Canales in San Antonio on December 3, 1986. After graduating from The Winston School, Cameron pursued college courses and eventually was drawn to the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS), where he successfully completed a course of study in the wilds of Alaska. He considered this to be one of the highlights of his young adulthood.

Cameron then served honorably for 12 years in the United States Army, during which he was deployed twice to Afghanistan for combat operations. He served at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, and Fort Carson, Colorado, before being stationed at Fort Benning, Georgia.

An excellent marksman and soldier, Cam completed sniper school and earned his Expert Infantryman Badge. Having both of these qualifications is a rarity in the infantryman's realm. He served as an instructor in the sniper course at Fort Benning where he used his expertise to train and mentor sniper candidates from across the U.S. Army.

Boundless energy best describes Cameron. He was courageous and fearless, taking on any challenge that presented itself. He was known for being the highest caliber friend and a boundless source of joy and love.  Cam never met a stranger, lending his tools, his time and talents to his neighbors and fellow soldiers - all in a spirit of great humor.  He always provided anything, and everything required to help those in need. His laughter was large and contagious, often providing a sense of warmth and comfort for all within hearing distance. Cameron had an enormous love for all animals, and he leaves behind his beloved rescue dog, Cash.

Cameron is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Barney and Lillian Sutton and his paternal grandparents, Hipolito Canales, Sr., and Irene Canales.

He is survived by his parents, Rhonda and Paul Canales; his brother Carson Canales; aunts Linda Nelson (Tom) and Irene Canales Janssen (Randy); his uncles, Barney Lee Sutton and J.A. "Tony" Canales (Yolanda) and cousins Katie Nichols, Skye Sutton, Joel Janssen, Marilisa Janssen, Tyler Janssen, Barbara Canales, Patricia Canales, and Hector Canales. He also is survived by his fiancée, Justine Williams, and his loving friends.

Cam's brother, Petty Officer Second Class, Carson Canales (USN), has been designated to escort Cameron's casket from Fort Benning to San Antonio, on Tuesday March 8, 2022.

FUNERAL SERVICES

Arrangements are being made by The Angelus Funeral Home.

A visitation is scheduled on Thursday, March 10, from 6 to 8 pm at the funeral home

located at 1119 N. St. Mary's St. San Antonio, TX, 78215.

The funeral service will be conducted on Friday, March 11, at 2:00 P.M. at

University United Methodist Church

located at 5084 De Zavala Rd, San Antonio, TX, 78240.

Live stream link: https://theu.online.church/ or

the Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/UniversitySATX

A reception will follow the services.

Cameron will be interred at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Animal Defense League , the Winston School , or a charity of your choice.