Dates
Joe C. Ornelas, lovingly known as "Bule," passed away on April 21, 2026, at the age of 85, surrounded by his children.
Bule was born to Adela C. and Santiago Ornelas on December 11, 1940, in San Angelo. The middle child, Bule grew up with his older brother Jim and baby sister Dell, along with his many cousins. He spent his youth at dances and working as a caddy at the golf course.
Bule was a friendly face to all who knew him, an avid golfer who treasured the friendships he made on the golf course and who deeply loved his family
He was preceded in death by his wife, Eva; his parents Adela C. and Santiago Ornelas; his siblings Jim and Dell; his nephew, Jim Soto Ornelas; his son-in-law, Armando Sanchez; and many aunts and uncles.
He is survived by his four children, Cory Leyva and husband (David of San Angelo, Anna Sanchez of Midland, JoElda Camarena and husband Joe of San Angelo, and Samuel Ornelas of Midland; his grandchildren, Phillip Leyva and wife Deina of Waco, Chancey Leyva of San Angelo, Gavon Sanchez of Midland, Devin Benavides and husband Michael of Odessa, Joe Lopez III of San Angelo, Jason Lopez of San Angelo, and Jaime Lopez and wife Seidy of San Angelo; 16 great-grandchildren; his niece, Kathy Castanuela and husband Danny; sister-in-law, Mercedes Ornelas; niece, GayDonna Ornelas; and numerous great-nieces and nephews.
Bule will be greatly missed by his morning McDonald's crowd, Jim Zapata, Robert Moya, George Bastardo, Albert Valadez, Tony Andros, Naco Valadez, Richard Garza, and by his special friend Terry Garza.
Bule found joy in time spent with those closest to him and was known for his quiet strength and steady presence. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will live on in the hearts of those he loved and those who loved him.
Viewing will be from 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM Friday, April 24, 2026 at Robert Massie Funeral Home with a rosary being recited at 6:00 PM. Liturgy of the Word will be at 10:00 AM Saturday, April 25, 2026 at Robert Massie Riverside Chapel with Deacon Pete Madrid, officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Robert Massie Funeral Home.