Alfonso Mata

How does one put into words a life so brilliant…

If you had the opportunity to meet Poncho, even just once, then you know how special he was and how complex his mind worked.

Poncho passed peacefully on Sunday, June 18, 2023, at his home in Odessa, TX.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Romelia Gomez Mata; his father, Andres Gonzalez Mata; brother, Andres Mata Jr; and niece, Elaina Cruz Perales.

He is survived by his sister, Carmen Mata Ramirez; brother, Pablo Mata (wife, Rosario); brother, Alvaro Mata (wife, Yvonne); and numerous nieces and nephews.

Poncho lived a life filled with vibrant stories and words…

Stories about growing up surrounded by family and friends, playing sports, attending Ector High School, and hanging out at the local horse races.

Stories about working as a radio announcer at Odessa College, working alongside his dad in construction, and substituting for ECISD.

Stories that stemmed from the countless books, that as an avid reader, he so often immersed himself into.

Words from the statistics of his favorite baseball teams and boxing matches.

Stories from the photographic memory of a life lived.

“The memories, stories, and life-long friendships that you have left behind make up the words to the chapters in our lives that will be forever treasured.”

Rest in Eternal Peace. We Love You.

Recitation of the Rosary will be at 6:30 PM, Wednesday, June 21, 2023, at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home.

Funeral mass will be held at 2:00 PM, Thursday, June 22, 2023, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church with Fr. Frank Chavez officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens.

Pallbearers will be Larry Molinar, Alonzo Salgado, Pepe Rodriguez, Andres Cristobal Mata, Alvaro Antonio Mata, Andrew Ramirez; Honorary Pallbearers will be Alfonso Moreno, Carlos Aguilar and Rick Ramirez

The family wishes to extend our sincere thanks to Poncho’s caregivers, Patricia Vanegas and Mari Rubalcaba; and to Larry Molinar & family and Alonzo Salgado for their continued support and friendship.

“I was by no means a scholar, simply an interested reader with nothing to do but live and learn.” ~Louis L’Amour