Mario Peña Jr. MD

Mario Peña Jr., MD, MPH, was a devoted physician and a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. He passed away on April 15, 2025, at the age of 75. Born on March 7, 1950, in Houston, Texas, he was the son of Mario Peña Sr. and Berta Vela Peña. The family later moved to Galveston, Texas, which became their home. Mario’s life was a testament to service, compassion, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to both his family and his patients.

Mario graduated from Ball High School in Galveston in 1968. He then attended the University of Houston, where he graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Biology in 1973. Mario was a proud member of the University of Houston Marching Band and Kappa Kappa Psi Fraternity. He also served as a Pre-Med Instructor for MCAT preparation through the National Hispanic Health Organization.

Mario continued his education at the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine, graduating in 1977. He was honored with the Robert Wood Johnson U.S. Public Health Scholarship during his studies. After completing his training at Brackenridge Hospital in Austin, Texas, in 1978, he later furthered his education by earning a Master of Public Health from the Medical College of Wisconsin in 2012.

Mario’s medical career spanned over four decades, starting with rural healthcare practice in Slaton and Crosbyton, Texas. He later established a private practice in Lubbock, where he focused on family medicine, occupational medicine, urgent care, and emergency medicine. From 2019 until his passing, he served as the Medical Director at Kings Park. In 2020, Dr. Peña was honored as Doctor of the Year by UMC. He also served on a national committee dedicated to developing residency and fellowship training in Urgent Care Medicine.

Throughout his career, Mario has been involved in various boards and committees and has held advisory positions with the Workforce Commission and the Lubbock County Medical Society. Additionally, he served on the admissions committee for the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine from 1999 to 2003.

Mario’s leadership spanned various important roles throughout his career. He served as the Chief of Emergency Services at Mercy Hospital in Slaton from 1978 to 1979, and as the Crosby County Health Officer from 1979 to 1981. He held the position of Chief of Medical Staff at South Park Medical Center in Lubbock from 1987 to 1990. Additionally, he was the Medical Director for substance abuse treatment at White River and Summit Place of Addictive Disorders from 1984 to 1990. He also chaired the Occupational and Employee Wellness Committee for the Lubbock County Medical Society from 2014 to 2020.

Dr. Peña was certified by the American Board of Urgent Care Medicine and the American Board of Emergency Medicine, and he served as a Medical Review Officer for many years.

Mario’s passions enriched both his life and his community. He was an avid reader with a deep love for history. A member of St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church in Lubbock, he served on the vestry and played the trumpet during services. As a talented trumpeter and bugler, he was a member of the Fourth Cavalry Memorial Reenactment Group and performed “Taps” for Memorial Day services in Lubbock. Mario also played in mariachi bands for many years and served as a community advisor for the Raiders Rojo Mariachi at Texas Tech University from 2002 to 2003.

Mario met his beloved wife, Elsa, in 1974 while she was working as an X-ray technician at Methodist Hospital. They married on September 4, 1975. Together, they built a life filled with love and family. Mario is survived by his loving wife, Elsa Peña; children, Nicholas Peña (Holly), and Jessica Peña-Pachiano (Kyle); grandchildren, Ella Peña and Ava Peña, and Nash Pachiano; and brothers, David Peña and Carlos Peña. Mario was preceded in death by his parents, Mario Peña Sr. and Berta Vela Peña.

Affectionately called “Lito” by his grandchildren, Mario found his greatest joy in spending time with them. He took delight in their laughter and shared stories about history and his love for music. Mario cherished moments spent coloring, painting, and playing games with them, creating lasting memories together.

One of his most loyal companions was his beloved dog, Duffy, who stayed faithfully by his side through many chapters of life, especially during the loss of his mother. Mario made sure Duffy was always cared for, and in return, Duffy watched over him with quiet devotion.

From a young age, Mario knew he would be a doctor. He achieved this lifelong goal through his tireless dedication to his patients and his community. His warmth, wisdom, kindness, and vibrant spirit will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers, the Peña family requests that donations be made to the Lubbock Christian School Band, 2604 Dover Ave, Lubbock, TX 79407, in memory of Dr. Mario Peña Jr., MD.

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