Arnoldo Guerra

Having fulfilled God's mission on earth, Arnoldo Guerra joined his heavenly Father on Monday, April 9, 2007, at the age of seventy-six. Arnoldo, "Nolo", was born to Taurino and Sofia Guerra on May 9, 1931 in Realitos, Texas. Arnoldo's many life-long experiences as a son, brother, uncle, father and grandfather served to enrich the lives of those around him. As a Korean War veteran, Arnoldo proudly served his country, and throughout his life, he continued to express his respect for the youth who serve in the military of which his grandson is a part. Working diligently at Hebbronville's Texas Highway Department of Transportation for over 37 years simply demonstrated Arnoldo's enthusiasm and sense of responsibility for the tasks which he undertook throughout his life. More often than not, he was the first to report to work and the last to leave. He believed in doing what was necessary to perform his job well and with a sense of pride. This same diligence carried over into his studies as he worked late into the night until he was able to achieve his General Education Equivalency Certificate of which he and his family were so proud and the projects that he so enjoyed completing at the "ranch" in Rachel, Texas. Growing up as the eldest son of a family of four siblings Arnoldo worked, every day of his life, to better the lives of his parents, brothers, sisters, and his own family. He was someone upon whom all could depend, and more often than not, his generous smile, love of family, and perseverance became the beacon of light for all who loved him. This was especially true of his daughters and grandchildren who loved and respected him beyond measure. When the occasion called for it, he was a shoulder to lean on, a cheerleader to boost our confidence, and a fierce defender for his family. In Arnoldo, there was a song to be sung, and this song clearly resonated in his wife, children, and grandchildren. His love of mariachi and the pride, which was so clearly evident in the smile he often wore when he attended all of his daughters' and grandchildren's events, warmed the hearts of those who loved him. He will be truly missed and remembered by those whose hearts and lives he helped to shape. Arnoldo was preceded in death by his parents, Taurino and Sofia Guerra. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Armandina Chavana Guerra and his three daughters: Sylvia (Jose Leonel, Sr.) Rios from Laredo, Texas, Cynthia (Jaime) Benavides from Kingsville, Texas and Sandra (Ernesto) Perez from Hebbronville, Texas; two brothers, Arnulfo Guerra from Falfurrias, Texas and Taurino Guerra, Jr. from Hebbronville, Texas; a sister Aminta Ramos from Hebbronville, Texas. He is also survived by seven grandchildren and five great grandchildren: AO2 Ricardo M. (Alma) Martinez of Virginia, Jaime D. (Ana) Martinez, Javier C. (Candie) Martinez; Debra D. (Leon) Thomas; Christopher D. (Deside) Loya, Michael Benavides; Ilyssa Amanda Saenz; Lucas Antonio Martinez; Tyler Thomas, Madison Thomas; Christopher Loya; Jace Anthony Martinez. Visitation and a rosary was held at the Funeraria Del Angel Howard Williams in Hebbronville on Thursday evening, April 12, 2007, at 8:00 PM. A funeral mass will be held at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church on Friday morning at 10:00 AM. Interment will take place immediately after at the Falfurrias Burial Park. His grandsons and Ernesto Perez will honor the memory of Arnoldo as his Pallbearers. Jose Leonel Rios and Jaime Benavides will serve as Honorary Pallbearers. Please join us in honoring our loved one, Arnoldo Guerra, by visiting our Memorial at www.mem.com