System Mechanic - Clean, repair, protect, and speed up your PC!STEWART, JOE, 74, Visitation: 6 to 9 p.m. Sunday, June 9, 2002 at Hillcrest Funeral Home Carolina. Funeral Service: 11:30 a.m. Monday, June 10, 2002 at Mount Olive Baptist Church. Burial: Ft. Bliss National Cemetery. Survived by wife Joyce G. Stewart, sons Joe Jr., Dee B., Johnny D., Eugene, and Gary Stewart, daughters Janetta D. Benefield, Teresa R. Bell and Sherian Mayo, brothers Johnny Stewart & Levester Stewart Sr., sisters Aressie Jackson, Georgia Whare, Ophal Franks, Dorothy Moore, Gwendolyn Snell & Bennie Mae Childs. Arrangements by Hillcrest Funeral Home Carolina.
VANHOOSIER, DELBERT, 81, Visitation: 5 to 9 p.m. Monday, June 10, 2002 at Sunset Funeral Home-Northeast. Graveside Service: 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 11, 2002 at Fort Bliss National Cemetery. Interment : Fort Bliss National Cemetery with Military Honors. Survived by wife Gloria Garcia Vanhoosier. Arrangements by Sunset Funeral Home-Northeast.
Juanita Casares, 92, passed away Friday, June 11, 2004 in Atlanta, GA. She was a lifelong resident of El Paso and was a member of the Catholic Church. Mrs. Casares was preceded in death by her husband Pete Casares. Mrs. Casares is survived by her daughters. Lydia Casares Pelan, husband Kenneth and Irene Casares Martinez, husband Armando, Sons, Joe Casares and Roberto Casares, wife Gloria, 6 grandchildren and 5 great grand children. Visitation will be Monday from 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Hillcrest Chapel. Funeral Mass will be Tuesday, 10:00 a.m. at Guardian Angel Catholic Church. Members of the family will be pallbearers. Interment will be in Restlawn Cemetery. Directed by HILLCREST FUNERAL HOME. 1060 Carolina Drive 598-3332
LOUIE GIALLANZA, age 75, went to be with the Lord Wednesday, June 9th in Georgetown, Texas. He was born in El Paso, Texas on September 21, 1928, the son of Nicolas Giallanza of Palermo, Sicily and Marianna Ferrozi Giallanza of Italy. Louie served in the United States Navy from 1945 to 1949 and then attended Texas Western College where he was a member of Delta Sigma Pi and received his degree in Business Administration. Louie, a resident of El Paso for 65 years had a successful career in the building business. He started his own construction company in 1959. Roman Builders, where he built over 3,000 homes in El Paso and successfully expanded his business to Albuquerque and Santa Fe as G & R Builders until 1997. Louie served as the 1969-70 Home Builders Association President in El Paso and led successful changes in new city codes for heating, cooling, plumbing and housing construction. Louie also served on the El Paso Plan Commission in 1974-75 and in 1975-77 he sat on the Public Service Board. As a leading El Paso builder, Louie was awarded the "Outstanding Association President" of the Texas Association of Builders in 1970 and "Builder of the Year" in 1984. In 1976 he was awarded the "Conquistador Award" for outstanding service, the highest award a citizen of El Paso may receive. Louie, a member of the University of Texas at El Paso Ex-Students Assn. and Delta Sigma Pi, served on the Ysleta Independent School District Advisory board for vocation guidance in the building trades. Among many other awards, Louie was presented a Business Leadership and Achievement Award from the University of Texas at El Paso for his outstanding service and contributions to the community. Moving to Georgetown, Texas in 1997 he remained Chairman of the Board of his Building business, Roman Builders and passed on the company to his son, Evan Giallanza in El Paso. He and his wife, Glenda moved to Sun City in Georgetown, Texas where they enjoyed traveling and meeting many new friends. Staying with his tradition of community sense, Louie and his wife joined a Sun City movement to build the first church to be built in a Sun City Community. Louie was involved in the planning and building of the inter-denominational church "The Worship Place" in Sun City. After the church’s completion in 2002, Louie loved attending Sunday services with his wife, his Georgetown friends and visiting family. Preceded in death by his parents, Nicolas and Marianna Ferrozi Giallanza; his brothers, Sam, Charles, Francis, and Tony; and his sister Concetta King. He is survived by his sister, Helen Schoephoerster and husband Del of Phoenix, Arizona and Rose Mary Houseman of Nashua, New Hampshire. He is survived by his loving wife, Glenda Giallanza of Georgetown; his three daughters, Lynn Dykes and husband Jim of San Diego, Dana Giallanza and husband Dolph of El Paso, Cara Giallanza and husband Bill of Los Angeles; his son Evan Giallanza and wife Jill of El Paso. His stepchildren, Myra Harris, Marianne Henry, Jim Harris and Bill Harris and wife Debbie. He is also survived by nine grandchildren, one great grandchild, eight step grandchildren and also numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held at the Martin Funeral Home, 128 N. Resler Drive on Sunday, June 13, 2004 from 6pm-8pm. A private family burial will be held at the Fort Bliss National Cemetery on Monday, June 14, 2004. Friends and family are invited to attend a memorial service at 2:30pm at the Restoration Fellowship, 10200 Album Drive, El Paso, Texas. Gifts and memorial contributions in Louie Giallanza’s name may be made to the El Paso Community Foundation, 310 North Mesa 79901. Louie was a loving and fun loving person and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www. cookwalden.com Arrangements by Cook-Walden/Davis Funeral Home, 2900 Williams Drive, Georgetown, Texas 78628 (512)863-2564
VIRGINIA GLENN HAMMOND, 79, went to be with our Lord on June 8, 2004. She was a resident of El Paso for 59 years. She was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, William Hammond and daughter-in-law, Teri. She is survived by her sons, Bill Hammond, Jr. and wife Betty of Watagua, TX and Ken Hammond of Denver, CO; her daughter, Cindy Culpepper and husband, Marty of Horizon City; 7 grandchildren, Hayley, Ben, Justin, Brad, Heather, Beth and Bill; 7 great-grandchildren, Ryan, Josh, Brett, Cailey, Faith, Bailey and Callum. She served many years as a church secretary. She was very active in her church and women's missionary group. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend. Visitation will be Tuesday, June 15th from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Kaster-Maxon & Futrell Funeral Home on Dyer Street. A Celebration Service of her life will be held at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 16th at Ford Chapel at First Baptist Church. Interment will be at Fort Bliss National Cemetery.
Richard Lee Johnson, 76, born to Frank Ira and Lydia Henry Johnson on February 19, 1928, in Fayette County, Kentucky, died on June 8, 2004 after a long illness. He is preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Gladys McDowell, brothers, Frank Jr., Russell, and Gerald Harper, and sons, Richard Lee Jr., Phillip Ira, and Patrick Eugene Johnson, and daughter, Paula Annette Johnson Owens. A long-time El Pasoan, Richard is survived by his wife of 51 years, Davie Lee Johnson, daughters, Pamela Dianne Johnson-Angeles (Omar) of Dallas, Texas, Patricia Elizabeth Johnson of El Paso, grandson, Simeon Richard Felix of El Paso, brother, Herbert Hogue of Gretna, Louisiana, and cousin, Teresa Murphy of Lexington, Kentucky, Richard grew up in Lexington, Kentucky where he attended school and worked on horse farms and in the tobacco fields. He enlisted and served in the U.S. Army for 1 year and 10 months, then transferred to the U.S. Air Force where he served 20 years 6 ˝ months. His overseas tours included Japan, England, Germany, and Thailand. He retired in October 1969, with the rank of MSgt. (E-7). After retiring, Richard (Handle-Desert Fox) worked for Safeway Stores and later for the Pfister Trucking Company. Richard loved his family, was generous, had a wonderful sense of humor, was a great cook, loved to fish (took his daughters fishing), golf, hunt, and ride horses. A visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., Sunday, June 13, 2004 at Sunset Funeral Home West, Chapel of Remembrance. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, June 14, 2004 at Sunset Funeral Home West, Chapel of Remembrance. Interment will follow at Ft. Bliss National Cemetery, with Military Honors. Honorary Pallbearers are Omar Angeles, Major (Ret.) Cornelius A. Banister, Simeon R. Felix, Herbert Hogue, and Anselmo Rios. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Visiting Nurse Association Hospice. Services entrusted to Sunset Funeral Home West.
Lloyd Miller, 77, passed away June 10, 2004. He had been a resident of El Paso for 38 years. He retired as a Senior Master Sergeant from the Air Force. He is survived by his loving wife Louise Miller, sons David Miller and wife Bonnie and Daniel Miller and wife Teresa, daughters Denise Barrick and husband Jim and Diana Everard and husband David. Also grandchildren Shannan Miller, Noah Miller, Cody Barrick, Hannah Miller, and Gabriel Miller. Visitation will be held Sunday, June 13, 2004 from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. Graveside service will be held Monday, June 14, 2004 at 9:00 a.m. at Ft. Bliss National Cemetery with Military Honors. In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Paul's United Methodist Church.
MARIA CONNIE NORIEGA, 74, born February 1, 1930, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2004. She was raised in Smelter Town and became a life long resident of El Paso. Survivors include: husband of 54 years, Eduardo "Lalo" Noriega, children Norma Quintana, Eddie Noriega Jr., Alfred Noriega, Esther Tibuni, Barbara Jimenez, Ralph Noriega, Monica Melendez, 8 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, sister, Maria "Kika" Sanchez and brothers Guadalupe Aguelles Jr. and Richard Arguelles. Mrs. Noriega completed her career with Desert Cleaners and then fulfilled the rest of her life as a devoted and loving mother. Visitation will be Monday June 14, 2004 from 12 noon to 6 p.m. at Mt. Franklin Funeral Home. Vigil Service will be Monday at 7 p.m. at St. Joseph's Catholic Church. Funeral Mass will be Tuesday at 11:30 a.m. at St. Joseph's Catholic Church with intermenty to follow at Ft. Bliss National Cemetery. Pallbearers will be family members.
BOBBY WAYNE PORTER, 27, born January 30, 1977 in Fort Worth, Texas, died Monday, June 7, 2004. He was a grauate of Hanau American High School in Hanau, Germany in 1995. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Layla Swanilla Porter, his grandmother, Shirley Porter Cook, and great-grandmother, Girtha Lee Porter. Bobby is survived by his wife, Jane Rene Pace, son, Jadin Khalid Porter and daughter, Jasmin Kianna Pace Yarbrough; his mother, Delores Jean Martin and his father, Kenneth B. Martin; biological father, Bobby Wayne Lewis, brothers, Kenneth Bris. Martin, Jr., Corwon Curtis Martin, sister, Danielle Lewis and a host of relatives and friends. Visitation will be held Sunday, June 13th from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Funeral Home. Funeral Service will be held on Monday, June 14th at 11:00 a.m. at Kaster-Maxon & Futrell Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow in Restlawn Memorial Park Cemetery.
Ponciano H. Romero, Jr. our beloved father and grandfather entered eternal life at age 99 at his home in Anthony, Thursday, June 10, 2004. He was born in El Paso, Texas May 29, 1905 to Ponciano Romero, Sr. and Asension Morales Herrera Romero. Our precious Lord has called him home. He has left behind a family that has precious memories that are dear to their hearts. Survivors include five sons, Ernesto M. Romero of Bosque, Enrique M. Romero and wife Ramona G. of El Paso, Texas, Manuel M. Romero of Garden Grove, California, Eugenio M. Romero and wife Carmen Y. of Canutillo, Texas and Sammy M. Romero and wife, Rosa O. of Westway, Texas; three daughters, Leonor R. Hernandez and husband Bernardo of Anthony, Rosa R. Apodaca and husband Jose of Wilmington, California and Herminda R. Chavez and husband Nemecio R. of Las Cruces. Other survivors include many grand and great-grandchildren. Calling hours for Mr. Romero will begin at 6 PM Monday, June 14, 2004 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church where the Prayer Vigil is scheduled for 7 PM the same evening. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 AM Tuesday, June 15, 2004 in the same church. The Rite of Committal and Interment will follow in the Anthony Cemetery where he will be laid to rest. Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Baca’s Funeral Chapels, 300 E. Boutz Road, Las Cruces. 527-2222
Rosendo O. Segura, 77, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on Friday June 11, 2004. He was born in Valentine, Tx. and lived in El Paso for 60 years. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean conflict and was a lifetime member of El Divino Redentor U.M.C. He became a free mason in 1986 and belonged to Sunland Lodge # 1344, El Paso, Tx. He was a great supporter and fan of the Dallas Cowboys. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years Ofelia Segura. Son Homer M. Segura and family, daughter Minerva A. Segura-Hugg, brother Milton Nichols and sister Auzena Duron. Visitation will be held Monday, June 14, 2004 from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m. with a Evening Service at 7 p.m. at Martin Funeral Home Central, 3839 Montana. Chapel Service at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 15, 2004 with intermenty following at Ft. Bliss National Cemetery with Military Honors followed by a Masonic Service. Pallbearers will be Juan Gomez Sr., Juan Gomez Jr., Jesus Gomez, Tomas M. Cisneros Jr., Carlos M. Cisneros and Victor Garcia.
Mary Marshall Steen passed on to be with the Lord on Saturday, June 12, 2003 at her home in El Paso. Mary was born in Baird, Texas on February 23, 1912. She was the daughter of Roy and Callie Marshall. Mary grew up in Clyde, Texas where she graduated from high school. She attended Texas Women's University in Denton, Texas, and obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Art. Mary then married her hometown sweetheart, Hugh F. Stern in 1937. Their happy marriage produced two sons, Stephen M. Steen and Stanely H. Steen. Mary was a very devoted wife and mother and later grandmother and great grandmother. Mary was a very accomplished artist, her favorite medium being water colors. She exhibited her paintings and won awards not only in El Paso, but throughout Texas and New Mexico. Mary was a member of the Texas Watercolor Society, the Texas Fine Arts Association and the El Paso Artists Association. Mary continued to paint until her final days. As a result of Hugh's position with El Paso Natural Gas Company, Mary and Hugh were able to travel the world. Mary enjoyed visiting new places and meeting people. She would often make sketches and painting of the places she saw. Mary was a resident of El Paso since 1944. She was a member of the Westside church of Christ since 1966. Through the years Mary was active in the El Paso Community. She taught art classes at the El Paso Museum of Art, served on numerous boards and committees and was a Cub Scout leader. Mary was preceded in death by her parents Roy and Callie Marshall, her husband Hugh Steen and her son Stephen M. Steen, Sr. Mary is survived by her son and daughter-in-law Stanely H. and Terry Steen of St. Charles, Missouri, and her grandchildren Stephen M. and Lisa Steen, Jr., of Odessa, Texas, Karla Kay Steen of Los Angeles, California, Robert H. and Victoria Steen of Odessa, Texas, Krista Gayle Steen of Taos, New Mexico, Stanely H. Steen, Jr. of Brooklyn, New York, Timothy and Kathy Nelson of Waterloo, Illinois, and Eric Allen of Mobele, Alabama and great- grandchildren Natalie G. Stern, Avery A. Steen, Robert H. Steen, Jr., Stephen, III of Odessa, Texas and Austin Nelson and Taylor Nelson of Waterloo, Illinois. Visitation will be held at Martin Funeral Home West, 128 N. Resler Drive on Monday, June 14, 2004 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Funeral service will be held at the Westside Church of Christ, on Tuesday, June 15, 2004 at 10:30 a.m. Interment will follow later Tuesday afternoon at the Ruidoso Cemetery in Ruidoso, New Mexico. Gifts and memorial contributions in Mary Steen's name may be made to the American Cancer Society or a charity of your choice. Mary was a wonderful and loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother and will be greatly missed by her friends and family.
Byrl "Tex" Burdick passed away at his home on May 30, 2004. He was 103 years old. He was born September 25, 1900 in San Angelo, Texas to parents Isophena Opal Miller Burdick and Lee Burdick. They moved to El Paso in 1902 where Tex was an El Paso resident for over 100 years. He graduated from El Paso High School in 1918 and attended the University of Minnesota. Tex returned to El Paso and in 1927 started his own company drilling water wells, erecting windmills and installing water pumps throughout the Southwestern United States and Northern Mexico. His memoirs and photographs of his early windmilling days have been captured in the 1992 book entitled, Blades in the Sky, Windmilling through the Eyes of B. H. "Tex" Burdick, written by T. Lindsay Baker. Over the years his company, "Burdick & Burdick", discontinued the drilling and installation business and became a wholesale water systems distribution company. Tex retired from the business in 1979. Burdick & Burdick, Inc. is still family owned and operated. Tex pursued many endeavors during his long life. In 1930 he became a licensed Ham radio operator and answered to the call sign (W5Bqu (W5 Big Quick and Ugly) and was a charter member of the El Paso Radio Club. In 2002, he was reputed to be the oldest active HAM operator in the United States. In the 1940's Tex became a licensed private pilot and owned several different company airplanes. He frequently spent his Sunday mornings flying over his customer's ranches outside of town and delivering newspapers by dropping them from the window of his airplane. Tex often flew disabled children to Kerrville, Texas for the Lions Club. After his retirement, he spent much of his time traveling the world with his beloved wife, Juanita. As an avid hunter and fisherman he enjoyed spending his summers in Alaska and Lake City, Colorado where he had built a cabin in the 1950's. He is survived in death by his beloved wife of 54 years, Juanita Burdick; son Byrl Burdick, Jr. and wife, Doris; his grandson Byrl (Trey) Burdick III and wife Patsy; grandson Bruce Burdick and wife, Colleen; great grandchildren Byrl (Hunt) Burdick IV, Shannon M. Burdick and Dylan Taylor Burdick, of El Paso. His only sister Laura Franks, preceded Tex in death. A memorial service will be held Thursday, June 03, 2004, 10:00 a.m. at the Martin Funeral Home Central, 3839 Montana Ave. A private burial will be in the family plot at Evergreen Cemetery. In lieu of flowers a memorial donation may be made to Hospice of El Paso or St. Clements Episcopal Church, 600 Montana, El Paso, TX 79902.
Jose M. Cervantes, 84, passed away Sunday, May 30, 2004, in a local hospital. A resident of El Paso for over 60 years, he was a Veteran of World War II and a recipient of the Purple Heart for his service. Preceded in death by his loving wife Manuela A. Cervantes. Mr. Cervantes is survived by sons, Omar Cervantes, Arturo and wife Dianne Cervantes of El Paso, TX; Fernando Cervantes of Los Angeles, CA and Jose Cervantes Jr. and wife Tracy Cervantes of San Antonio, TX; daughter, Sylvia and husband Robert Ortega of El Paso, TX. He is also survived by 8 grandchildren, Aaron, Andrew and Alyssa Cervantes, Steve and Michelle Ortega, Jessica, Caleigh and Cole Cervantes. Visitation will be held Wednesday, June 02, 2004, from 4:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. with a Rosary Service at 7:30 p.m. at Martin Chapel. Funeral Mass will be held Thursday, June 03, 2004, 12:00 noon at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Interment will follow at Ft. Bliss National Cemetery with Military Honors.
Wilma Jean (Billie) Fuller, 83, passed away on May 29, 2004. She was born Wilma Jean Bryan on September 25, 1920, in Hutchinson, Kansas. She was a graduate of Hutchinson High School, Hutchinson Junior College, and the University of Colorado, from which she earned a bachelor's degree in 1942. Following graduation she taught Spanish and English in high schools in Silverton, a mining town high in the Colorado Rockies, and in the farming community of Fowler, Colorado. In 1944 Billie married Wayne E. Fuller, a University of Colorado classmate. After World War II they lived in a variety of states, including Utah, Missouri, Colorado, California, and Wisconsin, finally settling in El Paso in 1955. For the next several decades Billie was very active in community affairs. She was a longtime member of First Presbyterian Church, where at various times she sang in the choir and served as president of the Women's Association, as moderator of the board of deacons, and on the church session as moderator of the outreach committee. In the early 1960's Billie served as president of United Church Women of El Paso and was a member of the citywide human relations committee. In these capacities she played a significant role in helping to end racial segregation in El Paso's restaurants and movie theaters through passage of a city ordinance, which preceded the federal Civil Rights Act of 1964. She was also an active member of the local United Nations Association, gave talks about the United Nations to various groups, and represented the city at a national conference on the U.N. in New York in 1969. In the 1970s Billie became a certified braillist, brailling books for visually handicapped students in the Texas school system and teaching other volunteers. For several years she was president of the El Paso Braille Guild. Billie will be remembered by all who knew her for her generosity, humor, and spirit of service. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Wayne and Gerald Bryan, and is survived by her husband of sixty year, Wayne; three children, Jamie, of El Paso; Douglas and wife Annette, of Orange, Connecticut; and Bryan and wife Kim, of Edmond, Oklahoma; two granddaughters Kimberly and Amanda, of Orange, Connecticut; and one sister, Marbie Brault, of Tucson. Following a private burial at Ft. Bliss National Cemetery, a memorial service will be held on Wednesday, June 2, at 2:00 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.
Wilma Hillmer, 91, passed away on Monday, May 31, 2004. She was born in 1913 to Lillian and Lewis Hillmer in Haven, Kansas. After attending high school there, she attended the University of Wisconsin in the nursing program. Later she joined the WAVES during World War II. After the service, she worked in Hawaii for ten years with the Congregational Church. She returned to California and worked at Stanford University in their research department. She came to El Paso in 1967 where she worked for H R Block and retired here. She was active at Our Savior Lutheran Church and enjoyed the fellowship there. She is survived by her sister, Elda Hubbard, two nieces: Dona Stout and Linda Delk; and their families. A Graveside service will be held on Thursday, June 3, 2004 at 10:00 a.m. at Evergreen East Cemetery with Pastor Terri Gray officiating.
Robert James Leftault, 50, of Newport, PA passed away May 26, 2004. He was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend. Through those he touched he shall live eternally. A memorial service will be held on June 04, 2004, at 11:30 a.m., in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery Annville, PA.
Adolfo M. Martinez, 72, passed away Sunday, May 30, 2004. He was a longtime resident of El Paso and was a member of the Catholic Church. Mr. Martinez was a veteran of the U.S. Army having served in the Korean War. He retired from the El Paso Electric Company with 36 years of service. Mr. Martinez is survived by his wife Maria Dolores Martinez. Sons, Luis Amador Martinez and wife Liz and Adolfo Martinez, Jr. Grandchildren, Jason, Jenny, Nicky and Aaron. Great Grandchildren, Jordan and Ryan. Brother, Pablo M. Martinez. Sisters, Eva Elizondo and Natalia Vasquez. Nephews, Juan R. Apodaca and Pedro Apodaca. Nieces, Martha Posey, Sylvia Hernandez and Lupe Ardery and other nieces and nephews. Visitation will be Wednesday from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Hillcrest Funeral Home - Carolina. Vigil Service will be Wednesday at 7 p.m. at Hillcrest Chapel. Funeral Service will be Thursday at 9:45 a.m. at San Antonio Catholic Church. Members of the family will serve as pallbearers. Interment will be in Fort Bliss National Cemetery. Directed by HILLCREST FUNERAL HOME. 1060 Carolina Drive. 598-3332.
A founding director of HispanicVista. com, Fernando Oaxaca, after a prolonged illness passed on Friday, May 28. He was accompanied at his bedside by his loving wife, Bertie, his best friend and brother, Jaime, sister Virginia and other family members and close friends. When we say "he passed on" we also mean he passed on the baton to a new generation of Americans. First and foremost, Fernando will be remembered as an American statesman. A man of passion for his country and conviction for his principles, with unmatched dedication, loyalty and patriotic fervor Fernando devoted his life to his country. His love for America, adherence to his family values, appreciation for his Hispanic heritage and traditions, his belief in democratic ideals, rule of law, equality and justice - these are the hallmark of his legacy. Born in El Paso, Texas of Mexican parentage, Fernando always held his parents with the utmost love and respect. He often quoted his father's witty directives that guided him through his life. His strong family values, supplemented by his Hispanic heritage and American work ethic empowered Fernando to become the unique statesman that was his destiny. Fernando served with honor in the US Army in World War ll. He went to college on the GI Bill and after graduating from the University of Texas at El Paso as an Electrical Engineer in 1950 he moved to Los Angeles where he became a successful businessman. He spent more than 20 years in the Aerospace Industry. Fernando served in President Ford's administration as Associate Director of OMB. He was an advisor to Presidents Nixon, Reagan, Bush (father) and President Bush (son). He was one of the founders of Ultrasystems, an aerospace start-up Company. He was a co-founder of Coronado Communications, engaged in broadcasting and radio, and pioneered marketing and advertising to the Spanish language consumer. His business success catapulted him to community service and political involvement. He served in the Nixon/Ford White House and became with his close friends, the recognized leaders of the Hispanic coalition of the Republican Party. A position he occupied until his recent illness. To his credit and honor, Fernando broke ranks with the Peter Wilson California Republican Party when they turned on the defenseless immigrant community. The measure, Proposition 187, was passed by the electorate in an election riddled with biased and inflammatory anti immigrant rhetoric, was declared unconstitutional. And subsequently Fernando was instrumental in bridging the divisiveness with a more compassionate and understanding policy toward the undocumented immigrant working class. He joined forces with Dionicio Morales, a living role model in the Hispanic community, and became the Chairman of the Mexican American Opportunity Foundation. MAOF today is the biggest Hispanic community services institution in the United States. He was also Chairman of the Mexican Cultural Institute in Los Angeles, co-sponsored by the Mexican government and private donations, to promote the Mexican culture and foment cultural exchange between the two countries. Both of these organizations awarded Fernando with their 'Life Achievement Award' - an accolade not previously accorded. Fernando will be best remembered for his statesmanship. He preached what he practiced. He believed in a welfare system that was a safety net and not an entitlement. He believed in self-help, self-esteem and a work ethic. He believed in government accountability and fiscal responsibility. He was committed to a democratic society that was governed by institutions grounded on principles of justice and equality - the rule of law. Above all, he believed that America's strength was grounded on family values, love of country and cultural diversity. Had it been possible, he would have endowed America with the gifts he treasured, his fluency in the Spanish and English languages, and his bi-cultural heritage. His 'Oaxaca Journal' essays published in HispanicVista are articulate, incisive, well documented commentaries espousing his conservative philosophy and ideals. He championed fair treatment and respect for all Americans. His enemy, whom he defined as America's real enemy, is the bigoted supremacist who cowardly drapes himself in the American flag and Christian credo. Fernando, hermano, we will continue to champion your cause. You will be remembered by grateful future generations of Americans, of all backgrounds and creeds.
Graciela Perea, 65, passed away Monday, May 31, 2004 in El Paso. She was a lifelong resident of El Paso and lived in Oakland, CA, for a period of time. Ms. Perea was preceded in death by her parents Jose and Santos Perea and brother Roberto Perea. She is survived by her brother, Jesus Perea. Sister, Adriana Perea. Several cousins, nephews and nieces. Visitation will be Thursday from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Hillcrest Funeral Home - Carolina. Vigil Service will be Thursday at 7 p.m. at Hillcrest Chapel. Funeral Service will be Friday at 9:30 a.m. at Hillcrest Funeral Home. Members of the family will serve as pallbearers. Interment will be in Evergreen East Cemetery. Directed by HILLCREST FUNERAL HOME. 1060 Carolina Drive. 598-3332
Esther Sabas, 52, passed away May 29, 2004. She had been a lifetime resident of El Paso. She was a loving mother, grandmother and friend and will be greatly missed. She is survived by her mother, Anita Benaventl, daughters, Sylvia Medina, Cynthia Valenciano, Anita Nevarez, grandchildren, Sammy Valenciano, Diego Valenciano, Marissa Valenciano and Anabelle Nevarez. Also, survived by her brothers, Manuel Torres II, Joe Torres, sisters, Elizabeth Reyes, Connie Prieto and Gloria Torres. Visitation will be held Wednesday, June 02, 2004, from 4:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. with a Prayer Service at 7:00 p.m. at Martin Chapel. Funeral Service will be Thursday, June 03, 2004, at Vineyard Fellowship Christian Church. Pallbearers will be Miguel Nevarez, Anthony Medina, Jose Labrado, Victor Labrado, Juan M. Prieto, Miguel Prieto, Joe Torres and Manuel Torres II.
Reyes V. "Chapo" Torres Sr., 83, went with Our Lord on May 29, 2004. He was a lifetime resident of El Paso and a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather and loyal friend. A true American Patriot, he was a WWII Veteran and ex POW. Served with the 15th Army Air Force as a radio operator and gunner. Honors include the Purple Heart, POW Medal, Air Medal, and the Presidential Unit Citation. Lifetime member of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, American Ex-Prisoners of War, Chapter I, Veterans of the Foreign Wars and the D.A.V. Mr. Torres was also a member of the 15th Air Force Assoc., founder and charter member of Segura McDonald Post #5615. He and his wife, Rosario were co-founders of the Golden Bear Social Club. He retired as a shop car inspector after 33 years of service with Southern Pacific Railroad. Preceded in death by Rosario, his loving wife of 56 years, his daughter, Rebecca T. Pierce. Survived by his sons, Reyes V. Torres Jr. (Alicia); Hector Torres (Irene); daughters, Miggie Torres and Rachel Cisneros, grandchildren, Andrea and Cristina Torres, Artie Cisneros, Ivan, Isaac and Vincent Paul Pierce, sister, Josefina Carrasco and his loyal pet companion "Mona Lisa". Visitation will be held Thursday, June 03, 2004, from 4:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. with Rosary Service at 7:00 p.m. at Martin Chapel. Funeral Mass will be Friday, June 04, 2004, at 9:15 a.m. at St. Patrick Cathedral. Interment will follow at Ft. Bliss National Cemetery with Military Honors. Pallbearers will be Artie Cisneros, Miggie Torres, Lawrence Lyman, Fernie Medrano, Ivan Pierce, and Roberto Navarrette. Honorary Pallbearers will be Manny Olivas, Andy Gonzalez, Ruben Sanchez Sr., Mike Tarango and Fidel Torres. The Torres family would like to express their appreciation to Dr. I. Martinez and Dr. D. Dobrin and his care givers Artie Cisneros, Miggie Torres, Carmen, Nena and Roberto.
Angelita R. Alarcon, beloved Mother, Grandmother, Great-grandmother went to be with our Lord on June 24, 2004. She was a loving person to everyone who knew her. She will be greatly missed. Preceded in death by grandson Jimmy Cordero. Survived by husband Amador Alarcon and sons and daughters, Hortencia Cordero, Jose Rivera, Gregoria Nunez, Yolanda Llamas, Armida Pasillas, Manuel Rivera, Sylvia Lopez and Robert Rivera. Brother Abelino Alvidrez and sister Tomasa Avila. Visitation will be held on Monday, June 28, 2004 from 2:00-9:00 p.m. with Rosary at 7:00 p.m. at Hillcrest Funeral Home (East.) Mass will be held Tuesday June 29, 2004 at 10:00 a.m. at Mt. Carmel Church. Pallbearers will be Jose Rivera, Manuel Rivera, Robert Rivera, Hector Pasillas, Enrique Lopez, Jesus Urteaga and Joe Nunez. Interment will be in Mount Carmel Cemetery. Directed by HILLCREST FUNERAL HOME. 1060 CAROLINA DRIVE 598-3332.
Lois McKenzie Godfrey died on June 23, 2004 in Albuquerque, New Mexico at the age 98.A longtime resident of El Paso, she was born in Cement, Oklahoma August 6, 1906 and is survived by her sister, Bea McKenzie Bragg of Albuquerque. She was preceded in death by her husband, James W.Godfrey. Mr. and Mrs.Godfrey moved to El Paso in the late 1930's. Mrs. Godfry held a prominent civil service position at Ft. Bliss, probably the only woman at that time to hold such position of responsibility. She obtained a Masters Degree at UTEP. During her many years as an El Paso resident, she gave much to the community as a volunteer in church and civic organizations including the Pilot Club. She will be buried at Lawton, Oklahoma with her husband.
Midronia Heredia, "Minnie", Dec. 23, 1902 to June 24, 2004, was a Devout Roman Catholic and a member of the 3rd Order of the Franciscans of which she was a founding member of the Chapel of The Roger Bacon College. A life long El Pasoan who lived and passed on through stories the rich and varied history of our family and city. A lay midwife during the 1930's with the health department, attended countless home delivery births. Worked many years at the Whitehouse and Popular Dry Goods Department Stores as a seamstress ending her working career at Fort Bliss where she made and repaired parachutes for troops. She dedicated her life to her family and to her faith. She is preceded in death by her brother Crispin Heredia, sister Juanita Heredia and sister Paz Stauffer. She is survived by her two nephews Samuel and Richard Stauffer, their wives Juanita and Peggy Stauffer, great nephews Daniel Stauffer, Christopher Marquez and great nieces Jacquelyn, Audrey and Emily Stauffer. Tia Minnie, you will be deeply missed. A Vigil Service will be held at 4 PM, Sunday, June 27, 2004 at Sunset Funeral Home-West, Chapel of Peace. A Funeral Mass will be held at 10 AM, Monday, June 28, 2004 at Roger Bacon College Chapel. Interment will follow at Evergreen East Cemetery. Services entrusted to Sunset Funeral Home-West.
