Miguel Sanchez Mendoza went to be with the Lord on October 24, 2019, in Wapanucka, Oklahoma, at the age of 52. Miguel or Michael, as he was known, was welcomed as the youngest son of Abel and Maria Mendoza on August 17, 1967, in Ozona, Texas. The family moved to Iraan and in 1987 he graduated from Iraan High School.
His kind eyes, broad smile and zest for life caught the eye of Miss Laura Ibarra in 1989. After a whirlwind romance they married on June 28, 1990, in Iraan. Together they welcomed three daughters and one son.
Michael was a Christian, a devoted family man, a loyal friend and a hard-working dyed in the wool vaquero. Outside of his family, his lifeâs passions were ranching and dancing. In fact, if you knew Michael chances are you once worked alongside him. It didnât matter what the job was, Michael would be there honest, willing, able to help and good humored even if things went a little south. Michael will surely be remembered for his jovial personality. He was so much fun to be around that he could make anyone feel like a kid again. His quick wit branded hearts with unending, unforgettable friendships.
The greatest labor of Michaelâs life was his family. Working alongside Michael Sean, or âPelonâ as he often referred to him, undoubtedly made him proud to be raising his own cowboy. Yessenia, the eldest child, spent her fair share of time working and learning alongside her father too. She later taught Michael a new kind of love- the love of being a grandfather. As a grandfather, Michael became PaPaw to Yesseniaâs three children. Miranda expanded on his PaPaw duties with five more grandchildren. Naylea, the youngest was Michaelâs very own princess. He delighted in watching her pursue her athletic endeavors and he was very proud of the young woman she is becoming. Michael greatly loved all of his children and he adored his grandchildren.
Michaelâs great love for family and friends was always on display. He was quick to give his very best to everyone. And everyoneâs heart it seems had a place for Michael.
Michael was preceded in death by his father, Abel Gonzales Mendoza and his sister, Maria Elena Mendoza. He is survived by his loving wife Laura, their children Yessenia, Miranda, Michael Sean and Naylea. Eight grandchildren; Aiden Granger, Alli Mendoza, Alex Mendoza, Arianna Gonzales, Kason Mendoza, Xavier Gonzales Jr., Nolan Settles and Aurelia Settles. His mother, Maria Albeza Mendoza of Iraan. His four brothers; Louis Mendoza, Santos Mendoza, Abel Mendoza Jr., and Richard Mendoza. Numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. As well as countless beloved friends.
Services will be held Wednesday October 30, at 3 pm in the Iraan Civic Center. Graveside services to follow.
âFor I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels or demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.â Romans 8:38-39