Rachel Santiago Fritz, a cherished mother, grandmother, and devoted partner, passed away unexpectedly but peacefully in her sleep on February 27, 2025. Born on July 20, 1954, in Big Spring, Texas, to Juan G. Santiago and Mary Martinez, Rachel was the third of seven children, growing up with the responsibility of being the oldest girl, which instilled in her a caring and nurturing spirit. After graduating from Big Spring High School in 1971, she briefly attended Howard Junior College to pursue her dream of becoming an educator. It was during this time that she met and married Airman Robert 'Bob' Joel Cook Jr. They married on December 19, 1973, and their journey together saw them living in various locations, including the Clarke Air Force Base in The Philippines. Rachel filled these years with adventures, welcoming two daughters into the world: Jacqueline Cook and Kathleen Cook-Polson.

In 1991, following her marriage to Bob, Rachel and her daughters moved to San Angelo, Texas. There, she enrolled at Angelo State University, where she pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education. In 1993, she married Gary W. Fritz. Rachel’s dedication to her profession was evident in her 27 years of service as a kindergarten teacher at James Bowie Elementary. Her classroom was not just a place for learning but a nurturing environment where countless children flourished under her guidance. Known as "the teacher with the white streak," Rachel left an indelible mark on her students, often attending significant milestones in their lives long after they graduated. Rachel was a vital part of Immanuel Baptist Church, where she had been an active member since 1991. She participated in the BASIC Sunday school class and was involved in the Concho County Emmaus Community.

Her joyful and bubbly personality made her a beloved figure, and she had a remarkable gift for connecting with people. Rachel’s laughter was infectious, and she had an uncanny ability to make a lasting impression, never forgetting a student’s name or the stories they shared. In addition to her thriving career, Rachel faced significant health challenges, including a diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension and a congenital heart defect in 1979, which initially gave her a limited life expectancy. However, with courage and determination, she underwent open-heart surgery at the young age of 25 and defied the odds, living a fulfilling life that centered around her family and passions. Her strength and resilience were an inspiration to all who knew her.

Rachel became 'Wella' when her oldest grandson, Gavin Reinhardt, was born in 2000, followed by her grandsons Gabriel Cook and Stellar Cook-Polson. In 2022, she embraced the role of great-grandmother with the arrival of Ambrose Cook. Her world revolved around her family, and she cherished the time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Rachel spent the last two years picking up her great-nephews from school as often as she could.

In December 2023, Rachel found love again with Ron Neuhaus, and they shared 14 beautiful months together filled with joy and companionship.

She is survived by her partner, Ron Neuhaus; daughters Jacqueline Cook of Dallas, TX, and Kathleen Cook-Polson, who resides in Crawford, CO, with her husband Joe Polson; and grandsons Gavin Reinhardt and Gabriel Cook.

She is preceded in death by her parents, infant brother, her children’s father Robert J. Cook Jr. and previous husband Gary Fritz; niece Shelli Santiago and nephew, Phillip Aguilar. She was greeted in Heaven by numerous aunts and uncles who loved her dearly.

Rachel’s love extended to her numerous nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and a large extended family spread across the world.

A celebration of Rachel's life will take place on Friday, March 7, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. at Immanuel Baptist Church, with burial following at Resthaven Memorial Gardens in Midland at 3 p.m. The family will receive friends on Thursday evening from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Harper Funeral Home. Friends and loved ones are invited to view and sign Rachel's memorial guest book at www.harper-funeralhome.com

Rachel's generous spirit, radiant smile, and loving presence will be deeply missed by all whose lives she touched. Her legacy of love and kindness will continue to inspire and uplift those who remember her. One of Rachel’s wishes was that bright colors be worn in memory of her.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like donations to be made to Immanuel Baptist Church, 90 E. 14th Street, San Angelo, Texas 76903.

Karen Kay Orange, 82, passed away Wednesday, February 19, 2025 in San Angelo.

Karen was born March 17, 1942 to Jesse and Thelma Stanley in Gary, Indiana. Karen and her siblings Betty, Arlene, and Harvey moved constantly throughout the west coast. She moved to San Angelo at the age of 71 to help her son PJ raise his son, David. She lived in San Angelo for 12 years.

Karen loved singing, bingo, acting, collectibles, antiques, and holidays with family. She was a psychiatric nurse for 12 years in California and worked in psychiatric field till she was found to have breast cancer in 2008. She beat that cancer and beat it again around 2017. In January of 2025 Karen went in to the hospital for hip issues just to find the cancer came back but was at stage 4 this time.

Karen had 5 children and 20 grandchildren who knew her as "Grandma K".

Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Thelma and Jesse Stanley; her brother, Harvey Stanley; her sister, Betty; her daughter, Cara Murray; and grandchildren, Shawn Murray and Aaron Murray.

Karen was survived by her sister, Arlene Landingham; her children, Kevin Murray, Laraine Sparr, PJ Sipin, and Jesse Sipin; and her grandchildren, Shane Murray, Joshua Murray, Francine Murray, Kayla Hall, Jeff Howell, Brent Harrington, Brandi Sparr, Destiny Murray, JJ Sipin, Ashlynn, Sipin,Zabrina Sipin, William Murray, Travis Murray, Skyler Murray, David Hunter and Clara Sipin.

Since many of the family came to visit from outside of Texas during her time on Hospice, which we are eternally grateful for the care and support of Concho Heart Hospice, we did not have a funeral or ceremony. Our ceremony was during the time she was living and as forward in memory of her.

Candelario (Candy) Garcia Sanchez Jr. (68) went to be with his Heavenly Father on March 1, 2025. Candy was born in San Angelo, TX on October 3, 1956, to Candelario Gonzales Sanchez Sr. and Irene Garcia Morales then after his mother remarried, he was brought up with his stepfather, Ernesto Morales.

In 1971, Candelario married his junior high sweetheart, Silvia Enriquez, and after 54 years together they proved that young love truly does last. They raised five sons and one beautiful daughter. Their hearts for family extended beyond their own children as they fostered multiple children and officially adopted their great-nephew, Brayden.

Candelario’s love for the Lord led him to pursue an associate’s degree in theology and to a life of service in many ways. He dedicated countless Tuesday evenings sharing his wisdom and faith with the troubled youth of the Tom Green County Juvenile Justice Center. Candelario also shared the gospel with men at the Eden Detention Center all while devoting 34 years to his church, Siloe Christian, faithfully serving wherever he was needed. Over the years he took on roles as a Deacon, Sunday School Teacher, and eventually, Co-Pastor.

He was well known around San Angelo, not just for his many years as a concrete truck driver for Concho Concrete, but for his deep involvement in the community and his church. It was nearly impossible to go anywhere in town without someone recognizing “Candy Man”. He was known for his playful humor, charming dimples and hazel-green eyes, but it was his overwhelming presence of the Lord that made him so welcoming. His warm smile and kind spirit left a lasting impact on everyone he met. 

Through all of life’s ups and downs Candelario held firmly to God’s personal promise that he would one day see all his children in church serving the Lord. Although there were days when that promise seemed unattainable, he always kept his faith and prayed without ceasing. In God’s perfect time he saw that promise fulfilled. His life was a testament to faith, patience, forgiveness, and the certainty of God’s never-ending love. His legacy of faith will be passed down from generation to generation. 

He is preceded in death by his grandparents Rosendo & Santos Garcia, and father Candelario Sanchez Sr. He is survived by his loving wifey, Silvia, their seven children; Candelario Sanchez III and wife Erlinda, Jesus Sanchez and wife Linda, Erick Sanchez and wife Analisa, Lori Rodriguez and husband Joe, Jacob Enriquez and wife Jane, Jeremy Sanchez, and great- nephew Brayden Enriquez, Mother Irene Morales, Brothers; Daniel Sanchez and Ernesto Morales Jr and wife Brandy, Sisters; Diane Sanchez and Estella Cruz and husband John, 19 grandchildren, and 21 great-grandchildren, along with numerous other family members and friends who will cherish his memory forever.

Visitation on Friday March 7, 2025, at 5:00pm at Johnson’s Funeral Home.

Memorial Service on Friday March 7, 2025, from 6:00pm-8:00pm at Johnson’s Funeral Home. 

Funeral Service will be on Saturday March 8, 2025, at 2:00pm at 

Siloe Christian Church 1625 Upton St. San Angelo, TX.

Nombre del fallecido: Antonio González Rojo Fecha: 3 de Marzo de 2025

Antonio González Rojo, de 76 años, falleció el lunes 3 de Marzo de 2025 en su casa en Mereta.

El velatorio público será de las 12:00 p.m. asta las 8:00 p.m. el Martes 4 de Marzo de 2025 en Robert Massie Funeral Home, con la familia presente de las 6:00 p.m. asta las 8:00 p.m. El rosario se rezará a las 9:00 a.m. el Jueves 6 de Marzo de 2025 en la Iglesia Católica Santa. Maria y luego se celebrará una misa a las 10:00 a.m. oficiada por el padre Tom Barley. El entierro se realizará en el cementerio Mereta-Eola bajo la dirección de Robert Massie Funeral Home.

Antonio nació el 13 de Junio del 1948 en Taxhay, Hidalgo, México, hijo de Justo y Francisca Rojo. Antonio se casó con Cristina Moran el 3 de Mayo del 1964 en Taxhay. Ha sido residente de Mereta durante 31 años y trabajó para la ciudad de San Angelo durante 28 años, jubilándose en 2007. Era miembro de la Iglesia Católica Santa Maria. A Antonio le encantaba ver fútbol, particularmente su equipo favorito Las Chivas Rayadas C.D. De Guadalajara. También le encantaba la jardinería y trabajar en su yarda, pero más que nada, le encantaba ver a sus hijos y nietos competir en cualquier deporte en el que estuvieran participando en ese momento.

Entre los sobrevivientes se encuentran su esposa, Cristina Rojo; su hijo, Tony Rojo y su esposa Crista de Veribest; su hija, Ernestina Cruz y su esposo Rosalio de Mereta; cuatro nietos, Carlos Cruz y su esposa Amanda de San Angelo, Rocio Pohl y su esposo Kurt de San Angelo, Tristyn Rojo y Aiden Rojo de Veribest; cuatro bisnietos, Michael, Kyleigh, Gabriella y Elias; dos hermanos, Rufino Rojo de Carolina del Norte y Mario Rojo de Mereta; y tres hermanas, Teresa Espino y esposo Eulojio de Ixmiquipan, Hidalgo, México, Juana Montenegro y esposo Jorge de Tizayuca, Hidalgo, México, y Carmen Colin y esposo Gregorio de Michoacán, México.

Antonio Gonzales Rojo, 76, passed away Monday, March 3, 2025, at his home in Mereta. 

Public viewing will be from 12:00 PM until 8:00 PM Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at Robert Massie Funeral Home, with the family present 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM. Rosary will be prayed at 9:00 AM Thursday, March 6, 2025 at St. Mary's Catholic Church, and Mass to follow at 10:00 AM with Father Tom Barley officiating. Burial will follow at Mereta-Eola Cemetery under the direction of Robert Massie Funeral Home. 

Antonio was born June 13, 1948 in Taxhay, Hidalgo, Mexico to Justo and Francisca Rojo. Antonio married Cristina Moran on May 3, 1964 in Taxhay. He has been a resident of Mereta for 31 years, and worked for the City of San Angelo for 28 years, retiring in 2007. He was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church. Antonio loved to watch “futbol,” particularly his favorite team Las Chivas Rayadas C.D. De Guadalajara. He also loved gardening and working on his lawn, but more that anything, he loved watching his kids and grandkids compete in whatever sports they were participating in at the time. 

Survivors include his wife, Cristina Rojo; his son, Tony Rojo and wife Crista of Veribest; his daughter, Ernestina Cruz and husband Rosalio of Mereta; four grandchildren, Carlos Cruz and wife Amanda of San Angelo, Rocio Pohl and husband Kurt of San Angelo, Tristyn Rojo and Aiden Rojo of Veribest; four great grandchildren, Michael, Kyleigh, Gabriella, and Elias; two brothers, Rufino Rojo of North Carolina, and Mario Rojo of Mereta; and three sisters, Teresa Espino and husband Eulojio of Ixmiquipan, Hidalgo, Mexico, Juana Montenegro and husband Jorge of Tizayuca, Hidalgo, Mexico, and Carmen Colin and husband Gregorio of Michoacan, Mexico.

Jesus H. Gomez, 88, of San Angelo passed away on Monday, March 3, 2025.

Viewing will be from 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM on Wednesday, March 5, 2025 at Robert Massie Funeral Home. Services will be at 4:00 PM Wednesday, March 5, 2025 at Robert Massie Funeral Home. Cremation is under the direction of Robert Massie Funeral Home.

Mr. Gomez was born on May 31, 1936 in San Pedro de las Colonias, Coahuila, Mexico to Julian and Anna Hernandez Gomez. He married the love of his life, Felipa Aguilar on August 10, 1959 in Mexico. She passed away in 2002 after 43 years of marriage. He moved to San Angelo in 1979. In Mexico he was a landscaper and while in San Angelo he worked as a butcher at San Agnelo Packing. Jesus retired in 2008 after 36 years of service. He married Martina Luna on March 6, 2005. Jesus was a dedicated member of Rio Vista Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witness and enjoyed preaching the good news to others. He had a green thumb, enjoyed gardening and listening to old music. Jesus was a very loving person, he would always share his opinion with you and you always new where you stood.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Lucia Delgado and a brother, Vicente Gomez.

Jesus is survived by his wife, Martina of the home; a daughter, Lisa Contreras and husband Roy of Abilene; a grandson, Elijah Contreras; and five brothers and sisters, Raymund Gomez and wife Maria of San Angelo, Jose Gomez and wife Juana of San Angelo, Amparo Gomez of Mexico, Consuelo Zamora and husband Augustine of Mexico, and Benito Gomez of Mexico; and numerous nieces and nephews.

John Hamilton Sage, 78, of Fredericksburg, passed away on March 1, 2025 at his home.

John was born on February 18, 1947 in Coffeyville, Kansas to Jack and Bernice Flores Sage. He grew up in San Angelo and graduated from Central High School. He then went on to earn his Bachelor of Finance degree from McMurray University in Abilene. He married Jill D. Richter in Arlington, Texas on July 19, 1973.

John spent his early career in the savings and loan industry before becoming a financial advisor. While helping people with their finances, John also loved supporting the people in his community. He was one of the founding members of the Greater Santa Rita Homeowner’s Association. Decorating the park at Christmas and helping to organize the neighborhood July 4th parade were the highlights of his year. John was also a member of the Fort Concho Museum Board from 1996 to 2002. He loved his family, being “Jeepaw” to his grandchildren, and all things nature – camping, hunting, and golfing with friends and family.

John is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Richard Sage. He is survived by his wife, Jill; children, Matthew Sage of San Angelo and Samantha Sage of Fredericksburg; grandchildren, William, Ellison, and Alex Keller of Fredericksburg; brother, Mike Sage; sister-in-law, Diana Sage; father of his grandchildren, Kory Keller; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial mass will be held at 10:00 AM, Friday, March 7, 2025, at Holy Angels Catholic Church and inurnment to follow at Calvary Catholic Cemetery.

The Sage family is eternally grateful for the care and support of Votive Hospice and our caretaker, Cypress Schumann.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Alzheimer’s Association, or any charity of your choice.

David Louis Hirschfeld, 88, passed away on Friday, February 28, 2025. He was welcomed to Heaven by his precious wife, Judith, whom he lost October 7, 2023.

David was born on December 19, 1936, in San Angelo, Texas, to Louis William “L.W.” and Odie Amanda Hirschfeld. David grew up in San Angelo, attended Pulliam School, San Angelo High School, San Angelo College (ASU), and graduated from Texas Tech University with a degree in Civil Engineering. After proudly serving in the United States Army, he returned home to San Angelo in 1962 and began work at his father’s welding shop on 29th street.

David became President of Hirschfeld Steel in 1963 and grew a small welding shop into one of the largest structural steel fabricators in the United States. Under his leadership, Hirschfeld Steel played an important role in constructing some of America’s most iconic bridges, stadiums, and industrial and commercial developments. In his “retirement years”, he found he couldn’t stay away from manufacturing metal and he acquired Wendland Manufacturing. Whether leading a steel fabrication company or a pressure-vessel manufacturing company, he led those companies to make a lasting impact in their industries.

David was a person of faith, devoted to family and community. He believed in giving without receiving, leading by example, and, as he put it, “never forgetting what it’s like to push a broom.” David was always mindful of his service. He and Judith often hosted military families in their home and supported the Goodfellow AFB whenever possible. David was acknowledged for his dedication to the San Angelo community, having been awarded the United Way’s Pioneer of the Year Award, the Citizen of the Year Award from the San Angelo Chamber of Commerce, the Distinguished Citizen Award, the Silver Beaver Award and the North Star Award from the Boy Scouts of America. Texas Tech University honored David with the Distinguished Engineer Award, and Angelo State University named David one of its Distinguished Alumni of the Year and in 2025 inducted him into its Spur Society. David honored his wife, Judith, by creating the Judith & David Hirschfeld Adoption Center at Concho Valley PAWS. He worked with Dr. Brian May and President Ronnie Hawkins from Angelo State University to establish the David L. Hirschfeld School of Engineering, ensuring future generations access to education in this field.

David was an active member of First Methodist Church in San Angelo, a proud member of the Bayith Sunday School Class, and a participant in The Walk to Emmaus. With intensity, he studied the Bible with friends on Wednesday mornings. David treasured the many friendships he shared with his fellow San Angelo Philosophical Society (SAPS) members. One of his favorite projects was rebuilding the old Catholic chapel that was located adjacent to the family ranch in Ft. McKavett. Now known as the “Hirschfeld Chapel,” it has hosted veterans for Sunday services on many occasions. In addition, David loved to fill the pews there with friends from all walks of life for Christmas caroling and church “Hymn Sings” that raised the roof of that old chapel!

David Hirschfeld’s legacy is not just in the bridges he built or the businesses he grew, but in the way he touched lives, his impact on the community he served, and the example he set for generations to come.

Preceding David in death are his parents, Odie and L.W.; an infant brother, Louis “Sonny” Hirschfeld; his brother-in-law, Eddie Slough; and his wife Judith. Left to cherish his memory are his children: David Louis Hirschfeld, Jr. and his wife Betty; Shawnee Hirschfeld Ingrum; Kendall Kyle Hirschfeld and his wife Lisa; and Wendall Wayne Hirschfeld and his wife Scarlet. David is also survived by his siblings, whom he adored: Janelle Slough and her family; Dennis Hirschfeld and his wife Laurie and their family. Like his father before him, David loved being called “Pampaw” by his grandchildren: David Louis Hirschfeld III, Kathryn Frances Hirschfeld; Alyssa Ingrum Dudley and husband Colin, Aaron Ingrum and wife Ellie, Austin Ingrum and wife Megan; Christopher Louis Hirschfeld and wife Bonnie, Amanda Grace Hirschfeld, Robert Harrison Hirschfeld; Jacqueline Hirschfeld Meyer and husband, Will, William Miles Hirschfeld, Grayson Thomas Anderson and wife Sarah, and Sydney Anne Anderson. His great-grandchildren will grow up knowing the legacy of David: Grayson and Mallory Dudley, Bennett Ingrum, and Peyton Ingrum (premiering March 2025). David’s extended family includes aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws, friends and associates, and the hard-working men and women of Hirschfeld Steel and Wendland Manufacturing.

Jim Hocker, Patricia Chapa, Marilyn Floyd, Matt Gonzales, Barbara “Gladys” Johnson, Edna Johnson, Shelly Lechuga, and Stephanie Melendez are the latest additions to the Hirschfeld family.They made David’s latter years comfortable, safe and they treated him with dignity and respect. David’s family cannot thank them enough.

Special thanks to Dr. Darrell Herrington, Hospice of San Angelo, Curtis Holtman and Shane Wilson and their staff, Lyndale Senior Living, Reverend Carl Rohlfs, Reverend Cynthia Young, Reverend Scott Bradford, Reverend Bill Proctor, and Jessica and her family who adopted his cherished Weimaraner, Grace, when he became unable to care for her.

David’s Celebration of Life will be Saturday, March 8, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in the Sanctuary of First Methodist Church; 37 E. Beauregard, San Angelo.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of choice or to:

Concho Valley PAWS: Judith & David Hirschfeld Adoption Center

3134 N. US Highway 67 San Angelo, Texas 76905

cvpaws.org

First Methodist Church Music Ministry

37 E. Beauregard San Angelo, Texas 76903

Firstmethodist.net

ASU Foundation, Inc. - The David Hirschfeld Department of Engineering Endowment

ASU Station #11023 San Angelo, Texas 76909

angelo.edu/DLH

Reginald “Rex” Beasley, currently of San Angelo, passed away February 28, 2025 on his 83rd birthday. He was born to Glen and Fannie Alice (McCaskill) Beasley in Leon County.

Rex married Jacqueline “Jackie” Conrad on October 21, 1961. Rex had many jobs during his life. He owned a service station in Bryan, operated heavy road construction equipment, and sold insurance, but he found his lifetime career in managing college textbook stores. For many years, he was the manager of the on-campus bookstore at Texas A&M University. He opened his own store in Waco and commuted from Kurten to Waco. Rex and Jackie moved to the Waco area to continue operating their bookstore, Highlander Student Bookstore, in 1999. They retired in 2005 and relocated to San Angelo to be close to their son and his family. They continued to be involved in the bookstore business, helping Mitchell and Lisa run University Student Bookstore in San Angelo. Rex and Jackie were active members in churches wherever they lived, including Glen Meadows Baptist Church in San Angelo until their health would no longer permit it. One of Rex’s driving forces to work on increasing his strength and regaining the ability to walk was so that he could attend church again. Rex had an infectious smile and a wonderful laugh, and both were part of his personality to the end. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends (and everyone was a potential friend!) and loved to talk. He was a serious 42 (dominoes) player and was occasionally accused of cheating (in a lighthearted way!)

Rex is survived by his son Mitchell Beasley and wife Lisa, of San Angelo; grandsons Tyler Beasley and Clayton (Amber) Beasley; great-granddaughter Cozetta Beasley; brother-in-law, E.W. Conrad; brother Jerry (Lillian) Beasley; sister-in-laws Verda Beasley, Gladys Beasley; sisters Madeline (Vernon) Keith, Vickie (James) Boriski; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Rex was preceded in death by his wife, Jackie, who passed away on January 26, 2025; his parents; his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Ervin and Martha Conrad; brothers Billy Beasley, and Larry Beasley; and sister Wanda Morgan.

Visitation will be held at Harper Funeral Home in San Angelo on Thursday, March 6, 2025 from 10:00-11:00 a.m followed by the memorial service at 11:00. Graveside services will be held at the Kurten Cemetery, Kurten TX on Friday, March 7, at 2:00 p.m.

Officiants for the memorial service are his grandson, Tyler Beasley, Associate Pastor at West Gate Baptist Church, Trenton, IL and Mack Roller, Senior Pastor at Glen Meadows Baptist Church, San Angelo, TX. The graveside service will be led by Tyler Beasley and Glenn Connor of Normangee, TX.

Pallbearers will be Rex’s nephews; John Beasley, Chris Beasley, Timothy Beasley, Sheldon Beasley, Will Conrad, and Kenneth Conrad.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Glen Meadows Baptist Church Building Fund, 6002 Knickerbocker Road, San Angelo, TX 76904 or to Hospice of San Angelo, 1933 University Avenue, San Angelo, TX 76904. The family would also like to thank the staff of San Angelo Nursing and Rehab for the wonderful care they provided for Rex.

The expression of a well-made man appears not only in his face, It is in his limbs and joints also, it is curiously in the joints of his hips and wrists, It is in his walk, the carriage of his neck, the flex of his waist and knees, dress does not hide him, The strong sweet quality he has strikes through the cotton and broadcloth, To see him pass conveys as much as the best poem, perhaps more

- Walt Whitman

Today, we come together to honor and remember the remarkable life of Daniel Quiz Martiarena, a man whose journey from Ciudad Acuña, Mexico, to the United States was marked by resilience, generosity, and an unwavering spirit. His life was not an easy path, but he embarked on it with courage and dignity.

Daniel's story began early, demonstrating an impressive sense of responsibility, creativity, and resourcefulness. At just seven years old, he stepped into the caretaker role for his family. With four younger siblings relying on him, he dedicated himself to helping his mother make ends meet. He shined shoes on busy street corners, sold newspapers to commuters, and took on various odd jobs to earn money for his family. His determination and resilience shone through as he navigated these responsibilities, showcasing the weight of adulthood he bore at such a young age. Daniel's grandfather also played a pivotal role in his young life. Through his nurturing lessons in fishing, hunting, and appreciation of nature's bounty, Daniel learned to be strong and adaptable. These experiences were foundational, helping to mold Daniel into the resilient individual we admire today.

Daniel would often vividly recall these experiences growing up in Acuna, each story capturing a time filled with adventure and discovery, where his hometown's vibrant sights and sounds shaped his early years. Whether he was reminiscing about the neighborhood, friends he played with, or the festivals that brought the community together, his passion for those memories came alive for the listener. Through these anecdotes, he preserved the essence of his upbringing and invited others to experience his childhood.

Daniel's love for futball ignited when he was 11 years old, sparking a passion that would carry him through life. His remarkable footwork and skills opened doors for a professional career, garnering him significant recognition for his talent. This prowess earned him the nickname el "Campeon," one that would stick with him for the rest of his days. His love for the sport remained as the years passed, and he grew older. Though time may have changed his body, it only strengthened his bond with the game, allowing him to appreciate it all of his days.

Daniel's ambition and intelligence stood out during his teenage years as he earned an associate degree in accounting. This achievement paved the way to his first significant job, where he prepared payroll for the construction of the Amistad Dam and subsequently worked at a bank. Ironically, he soon learned there was no money to be made working at a bank. He started a new career as a busboy, gradually advancing to the role of waiter at the prestigious Ma Crosby's and La Macarena restaurants. During this time, he also took on the role of secretary for the Waiters' Labor Union, known as "Sindicato," where he was instrumental in drafting agreements between the waiters and restaurant owners, ensuring fair treatment and better working conditions for his colleagues. His commitment to labor rights coincided with his emergence as a prominent figure within the youth division of the Institutional Revolutionary Party, widely recognized as the PRI party, where he served as president. This position allowed him to influence the younger generation's political engagement and aspirations for the future. In his early twenties, he proudly served as a bugler for the Banda de Guerra, an esteemed marching band renowned for its stirring performances of military marches at civic events. This experience honed his musical skills and instilled a deep appreciation for discipline and community service. Throughout his life, he maintained a keen interest in the political landscapes of America and his beloved native Mexico. He prioritized staying well-informed about the political dynamics of both nations, actively participating in civic duty as a dedicated dual citizen who cherished his right to vote.

Throughout the years, Daniel's career journey evolved into a rich tapestry of diverse experiences. After moving his family to San Angelo, he began a fresh chapter brimming with new opportunities. He delved into the world of car mechanics, mastering the intricate art of rebuilding transmissions with astonishing speed and precision. He moved on to work in the bustling meat packing plants, where he honed his butchering skills and quickly rose through the ranks to become a foreman. Daniel later took on the challenge of entrepreneurship, owning and successfully managing two popular bars operating under the name "El Deportivo." These lively establishments became a hub for many amigos and laughter, where he forged lasting friendships, clinching numerous wins in spirited competitions of pool and darts, and still known as el "Campeon."

Daniel embraced multiple, various trades in addition to being a business owner. He acquired a diverse skill set, including painting, rock masonry, laying tile, drywall installation, plumbing, and mastering nearly every construction aspect. His calloused yet capable hands also worked diligently on the railroad, repairing and maintaining track and skillfully rerailing derailed railcars back onto their proper paths.

As Daniel made his way through life, he embarked on remarkable travels around the globe. He wandered the ancient hallways of the Roman Coliseum. He trekked the stunning trails of Machu Picchu, soaking in the breathtaking views of the Andes and the lush green terraces. In the serene grandeur of St. Peter's Basilica, he found solace and spirituality, surrounded by artistic masterpieces. He gazed upon the enchanting city of Paris from the towering heights of the Eiffel Tower. In Spain, he marveled at the ornate details of the Basilica de la Sagrada Familia, captivated by its unique architecture that tells a story of faith and creativity. These adventures and many others filled his life with unforgettable experiences and cherished memories during his later years.

But what truly set Daniel apart, beyond his professional achievements, political activism, athleticism, and world travels, was his unfaltering selflessness, generosity and gentle nature. He had a gift for making others feel loved and important. His quick wit and storytelling abilities, often entertaining us with tales of his life in Mexico or discussing politics, made him popular at any gathering. His love for his family was evident in everything he did. He was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather. One of the many ways Daniel showed affection was through his passion for cooking, always eager to prepare meals for loved ones. The presentation was equally important. Who amongst us has not experienced Daniel's beautifully set table with perfectly placed dinnerware complimented by his well-known standing fan napkin or enjoyed his beautiful voice singing an impromptu Las Mananitas? His presence at family gatherings will be deeply, deeply missed.

Let us remember Daniel as he would want to be remembered-for his can-do attitude, ability to make the best of challenging situations, and love for family. Daniel, the world doesn't produce many like you. You were indeed a Renaissance man, a tapestry woven from passion and soul, and we will strive to carry your spirit of compassion, patience, and understanding forward in our lives.

Services for Daniel were on Saturday, March 1, 2025 at Robert Massie Funeral Home.

Dyana Lynn Glenn, age 67, of May, Texas, passed away on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. She was born on July 29, 1957, in Big Lake, Texas, to Gilmer and Joan James. Dyana attended Irion County High School.

Dyana had a deep love for animals and enjoyed spending time outdoors. Her favorite pastimes included camping, fishing, and trips to the beach and mountains. She also never passed up the opportunity to go gamble at the casinos.

Dyana was preceded in death by her parents, Gilmer and Joan James, as well as her brothers, Kenneth and Tony James.

She is survived by her children, Todd Lawdermilk and wife Heather, Tillman Lawdermilk and wife Vanessa; her grandchildren, Macy Lawdermilk, Makina Lawdermilk, Baylee Lawdermilk, Ashlynn Purcell, Dustin Colbert, Tommy Purcell, and Colton Lawdermilk. Dyana is also survived by her brother, Tommy James and wife Rita, along with several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at a later date at Sherwood Cemetery.

Family and friends are invited to sign the online register book at www.Johnsons-FuneralHome.com.