Albert "Al" Arechiga Jr.

We are sad to report that ALBERT "AL" ARECHIGA, JR. passed away on early Sunday, September 14. Albert was a caring and loving, husband, father, grandfather and friend and will be sorely missed by all those who love him. Al was born on January 8, 1937 in Austin, Texas to his parents Albert Sr. and Beatrice Arechiga. He is survived by his loving wife of 49 1/2 years, Aida "Ida" Balli Arechiga, daughter Audrey Arechiga-Kajs and her husband John P. Kajs, daughter Alice Arechiga Wimberly and her husband Dave S. Wimberly and son Albert Arechiga III and his wife Patti Hart Arechiga. In addition, he took great pride in his four grandchildren whom he loved dearly, John-Albert Arechiga, Aida Kajs, Madison Arechiga and Anna Kajs. They knew him as "Bubba." Al lived in Texas most of his life and graduated from San Benito High School in 1954. After serving in the army and helping out with various family businesses, he moved in 1963 with his family to begin a new career in the burgeoning grocery industry. He began as a meat cutter with Safeway stores and rose through the ranks until promoted to meat merchandiser in December of 1972. It was at this time the family moved to Houston. Al was legendary for his skills in the industry as he continued his career with Appletree and Kroger. He also gained a reputation for the best Barbecue in town. All the while, he was active in the community, and never missed a game, performance, or awards ceremony. He was especially proud to attend the college graduations of all three of his children. In July 2000 Al retired and spent his time visiting with grandchildren, working on his yard and enjoying the company of his beloved wife. Al and Ida were devout Catholics and were founding members of the St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church Community. He was active in many ministries throughout the years but came to love serving God through his work as an usher and participation in the Tuesday Morning Discussion Group. In the summer of 2002, He was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. He endured numerous treatments, even helping pioneer new medications used in fighting the illness. He knew happiness through time spent with his family and friends. His faith in God and the love and support of his wife helped him get through the tough times. We are all grateful, his final moments were peaceful in the care of God and his family. Services are planned as follows, visitation for family and friends will be held from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Thursday, September 18, 2008 with a rosary at 7:00 PM in the chapel at Memorial Oaks Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, September 19, 2008 at 1:00 PM with Father Mike Carmody presiding at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church. Interment to follow at Memorial Oaks Cemetery. Our family would like to thank Dr. Miguel Miro-Quesada MD and all the staff of Oncology Associates, who provided the best care possible over the last 6 years. Their kindness and support will forever be remembered and made the illness and care a little easier for all of us to bear. Hook `em Horns, Bubba!