Ignacio Alvarez, Jr. “Junior”
With profound sadness and deep love, we bid farewell to our cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, Ignacio Alvarez, Jr., who departed from this life on Saturday, December 2, 2023, and entered the arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He was 70 years old.
Ignacio’s journey began in humble surroundings, one of 10 children born to Ignacio and Petra (Arranda) Alvarez in Ganado, Texas. Born on March 4, 1953, he spent his early years working alongside his siblings in the fields, an experience that shaped his strong work ethic. Ignacio is survived by his sister Mary De Los Santos and brother Marcus (Carmen) Alvarez. He is preceded in death by brothers Pamfilo Alvarez, Robert (Lois) Alvarez, Pete Alvarez, Frank (Linda) Alvarez, Alex (Katy) Alvarez, and sisters Janie Ramirez and Josie Alvarado.
On April 22, 1972, Ignacio embarked on a 51-year journey of love and companionship with his devoted wife, Ella (Rosalez). Together, they built a life in Ganado with their two sons. As a firm yet loving father, he instilled values of hard work, commitment to family, and to always put God-first in his boys. His guidance shaped them into accomplished individuals and the most extraordinary fathers. He is survived by his two sons Andy (Renee) and Tim (Amber).
Ignacio’s heart overflowed with love for his eight grandchildren, who brought immeasurable joy to his life. A devoted “Grampa,” he cherished every moment spent with them, sharing his love for music and offering words of wisdom from scripture. With his guitar in hand and his resounding voice filling the room, he leaves behind echoes of praises sung that will forever resonate in their hearts. Surviving grandchildren include Maleah Olvera, Luke Alvarez, Faith Birkelbach, Melanie Alvarez, Buddy Olvera, Lesley Alvarez, Emi Alvarez, and Jackson Birkelbach.
Ignacio leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, in-laws, and cherished friends, all of whom are grappling with the feeling that our world has become a little dimmer since his light moved on from this life into the next.
Ignacio, you’ve left behind shoes that seem impossible to fill, yet your children and grandchildren are proud to follow the path you’ve paved.
A graveside burial will be held on Friday, December 8, 2023, at 10 a.m. at Ganado Cemetery County Road 252 @ Cemetery Road Ganado, TX 77962. Family and friends are invited to join us in paying our final respects. A reception will follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you extend an act of kindness to your family, friends, or neighbors, mirroring the compassion and generosity that Ignacio demonstrated on any given day.