Miguel A. Paredes

DR. MIGUEL A. PAREDES
EDINBURG - Dr. Miguel A. Paredes, Associate Professor of Mathematics at the University of Texas Pan-American for 25 years, who was instrumental in acquiring grants for educational programs, died at 65, on Thursday, October 11, 2007.
Dr. Paredes was diagnosed with cancer last October. After having a tumor removed in March, and continuing treatment thereafter, another tumor grew and claimed his life.
He was born in La Serena, Chile, where he grew up enjoying the beauty of nature, a delight of his that is seen in his artwork. He lost his father when he was 8 years old, and his brother, Rafael, encouraged and supported him in the pursuit of his education. While in Santiago, Chile at the Universidad de Chile he completed his Bachelors in Mathematics. After the turmoil Chile experienced after September 11, 1973, Dr. Paredes, left Chile to attend Columbia University in New York City. He then went to the University of Utah and completed his Masters in Mathematics and Doctorate in Mathematical Economics. In 1982 he was hired as an Assistant Professor of Mathematics at Pan-American University.
During his service and commitment at The University of Texas Pan-American he served as the Mathematics Graduate Advisor, Interim Mathematics Chairman, Director of TexPrep, LSAMP Site Director (Bridge to the Doctorate), and even Head Coach of the UTPA Soccer Team from 1995-1998 until the program was cancelled. He loved all his work, and he adored the students he served.
His deepest passion was his family. The day of his death was the day of his 35th wedding anniversary to his beloved wife, Sonia, whom he loved deeply. He was proud of his daughter and his three sons. His eight grandchildren were his pride and joy.
Dr. Paredes is survived by his wife, Sonia Paredes of Edinburg; four children, Angelica (Carlos Osorio) Paredes of Antofagasta, Chile, Miguel L. (Brenda) Paredes of San Juan, Marcelo H. (Claudia) Paredes and Mario A. (Dezerei Diaz) Paredes both of Edinburg; eight grandchildren; two brothers, Rafael Paredes and Sergio Paredes both of La Serena, Chile; and a sister, Raquel Paredes of Huntsville, Alabama.
Visitation will be held from 5 to 9 p.m., with a 7 p.m. rosary today, October 14, 2007, at Memorial Funeral Home, 208 E. Canton, in Edinburg. Funeral service will be at 2 p.m., Monday, October 15, 2007, at Holy Family Catholic Church in Edinburg. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Edinburg.
One of his wishes was to have a research scholarship fund in his name. In lieu of flowers, you are welcome to make a donation payable to The University of Texas Pan-American, External Affairs ITT 1.210, Attn: Lydia Aleman, 1201 W. University Dr, Edinburg, Texas 78539. Please specify on the check, Dr. Miguel Paredes Endowed Research Scholarship Fund.
Funeral services are under the direction of Memorial Funeral Home in Edinburg.