Andres Mata

On September 14, 2009, our devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, padrino, mentor and friend passed away to peacefully rest at the age of 82. He was surrounded by his beloved family and many friends.

Andres Gonzalez Mata was born on April 17,1927 in El Indio Ranch, Presidio, Texas. He married Romelia Gomez on October15, 1949 in Odessa, Texas. He was a member of Holy Redeemer Catholic Church.

Andres was a decorated veteran who served in the United States Army during WWII. He worked for S.L. Briley Construction for 47 years and was always sharing his fond memories working there.

Andres had a strong and compassionate heart; he believed that giving to others was its own reward. Those of you who knew him; even in the slightest way, knew him as a man of honor and integrity, a man with a generous and kind spirit. His accomplishments, in his 82 years, are too numerous to list, but the greatest of his accomplishments and the legacy he leaves behind is his unconditional love for his family. He was also a wonderful friend and gave so much of his time and energy nurturing those friendships. Growing up, we remember the door to his home always open and welcoming. Many people were blessed by his generosity.

He was a horseman and his passion for horses echoed through his pores and he could be found at the horse races on any given Sunday.

We miss him so much already and in his honor and memory we hope to carry on his generous and loving legacy. He is survived by his cherished wife, Romelia of Odessa; three sons, Alfonso Mata, Alvaro Mata and wife Yvonne Mata; Pablo Alberto Mata and wife Rosario Mata; daughter, Maria del Carmen Mata Ramirez and Ricardo Ramirez; and 11 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. Brother, Pablo Gonzalez Mata of Phoenix, Arizona; sister, Maria del Carmen Diaz of El Paso, TX, his many godchildren, and by his supportive friends and family that will miss him dearly.

He is preceded in death by his father, Lonjino Mata; mother, Eleuteria Gonzalez Mata; brother, Ramon Gonzalez Mata; and son Andres Mata Jr.

Rosary will be at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday, September 16 and 17, 2009 at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. Mass will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, September 18, 2009 at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church with Father Pablo Mata officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens.

Pallbearers will be family and friends.

A few words alone cannot describe his impact on so many lives. He touched everyones heart in a unique and special way. He will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege to know him.

Service

Mass

Holy Redeemer Catholic Church
2633 Conover Drive
Odessa, TX  79763
Friday, September 18, 2009
11:00 AM

Rosary

Sunset Memorial Chapel
6801 E. Business 20
Odessa, TX  79762
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
6:00 PM

Rosary

Sunset Memorial Chapel
6801 E. Business 20
Odessa, TX  79762
Thursday, September 17, 2009
6:00 PM

Cemetery

Sunset Memorial Gardens
6801 E. Business 20
Odessa, TX  79762