CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Juan Jose Canales, also known as Johnny Canales, was an iconic figure born in Mexico and raised in Robstown. He died just before 8 a.m. Thursday, his wife, Nora Canales, posted on the ‘El Show de Johnny y Nora Canales Facebook page.’
Johnny Canales was many things; he hosted his own Tejano music show for decades, but before that, he served in the United States Army for three years during the Vietnam War. But most of all, he was always there for his community.
Carlos Lopez, owner of 104.9 MAJIC, was deeply shocked to hear the news of Johnny Canales’ death at the age of 77. He had been a fan of Canales since childhood.
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“No matter how big a star he was, Johnny was a very humble guy, very friendly, and he was an ambassador, I think he was one of the biggest ambassadors for Corpus Christi,” Lopez said.
‘You got it! Take it!’ This is the phrase most identified with Johnny. Those who knew him personally described the man behind this phrase as a humble and big-hearted person.
“He was such a beautiful and genuine person and we will never forget him,” Lopez said.
Johnny Canales headlined his own TV show with his partner of 29 years, Nora Canales, which aired on KRIS 6 for nearly a decade.
Veterans’ issues were very near and dear to Johnny Canales; he was also active in the fight for civil rights in the Hispanic community. Now, the community he supported is mourning his passing.
With tears in his eyes, Lopez remembers vividly the day he first met Johnny at a restaurant in Robstown. He said he signed Johnny’s record and Johnny never changed his behavior with Lopez.
Johnny worked closely with Lopez’s father and the two developed a great relationship. Lopez said that there was one thing Johnny said that he will always remember.
“Shoot for the moon, because even if you miss you’ll still be among the stars,” Lopez said.
The artist’s relatives and followers have left encouraging messages in support of his wife and daughters during this difficult time.
Lopez described Johnny as a happy person and said he would like to be remembered through music. The cause of his death is not yet known.
Services have not been announced, but KRIS 6 News will update you as details become available.
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