Mateo Felipe Cruz

Mass of Christian Burial for Mateo Felipe Cruz, 75, of Corrigan will be held Saturday, December 14, 2024 at 12:00 noon at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with Fr. Luis Fernando Arroyave Perez officiating. Interment will follow in Union Springs Cemetery in Corrigan. Rosary will be recited at 7:00 p.m. Friday evening in the Carroway Funeral Home Chapel in Lufkin.

Mateo Felipe Cruz, a devoted family man, faithful servant and pillar of his community, was born on February 15, 1949 in Danghu-Tasquillo, Hidalgo, Mexico. Don Mateo, as he was often called, lived a life marked by hard work, determination and love. He instilled perseverance in his children by telling them "Echale Ganas (give it your all)". Mateo loved working in the fields, building fences and growing vegetables. He took pride in his work and was known for his kindness and generosity, often giving away his famous tamales and a bag of chili peppers. His greatest love was his family, particularly his beloved wife, his "viejita." He always told of the night they met and how they danced for two nights in a row and she was the one who "stole a kiss." Despite life's challenges, he cared for her with kindness, compassion and devotion. Don Mateo's greatest wish was to bring his entire family to the United States in search of a better life. Through unwavering determination and perseverance, he fulfilled this dream and never gave up on his family's future. Mateo, a devout Catholic, received Jesus Christ into his heart and spent his final years in prayer and song. He was devoted to Our Lady of Guadalupe and took his last breath at the conclusion of the Rosary.

Mateo was a beloved compadre, godfather, and uncle. He cherished traditional celebrations like 'Dia del Nino' ​​with all his grandchildren. He was committed to always helping - community service in his hometown, including the initiation of building the town's courtyard and clinic. In his free time, Mateo enjoyed fishing, hunting, and sharing stories of his adventures with loved ones including jokes on repeat. He also loved spending time at the casino, socializing with friends and trying his luck. But Mateo's greatest joy was spoiling his grandchildren. He'd often surprise them with tamales at school or slip them a dollar to buy themselves a treat, like a Coke. These small acts of kindness brought immense joy to both him and his grandchildren.

He inspired many other people with his altruism, kindness and generosity.

Don Mateo was reunited with his grandparents, Jose Felipe, beloved Abuelita Francisca, his Dad Francisco, Mom Eleuteria, and six siblings on Friday December 6, 2024. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Felipa Felipe.

Children: Francisco Felipe, Leonardo Felipe, María Zúñiga, Emilia Rivera, María Trejo, Cecy Zamora, Edith López, José Luis Felipe, and Irma Olige

Daughters/Sons in law: Patricia Felipe, Gaby Felipe, Justo Zúñiga, José Rivera, Esteban Trejo, Randy Zamora, Jr Lopez, Katie Felipe, y Joseph Olige

Nietos: Brenda, Fernando, Jenny y Gladys Felipe, Clarissa, Yulissa y David Felipe, Gabby y Sergio Zuniga, Lalo, Danny, Paquito y Mily Rivera, Damaris, Melissa, Luis, Arlette y Aiden Trejo, Camila y Roberto Zamora, Javi y Sebastián López, Julián y Kali Felipe, Mateo, Joseph y Rio Olige

Bisnietos: Amerie, Mia y Miguel Zamora, Eli y EZ Mercado

*Portadores honorarios del féretro

*Portadores adicionales: José Zamora, Mario Carbajal, Robert McAdams, José Mercado,

Mateo also leaves behind-

Siblings: Otilio, Victor, Celso, Sofia, Andrea, and Lola Felipe

Numerous nieces, nephews and a wide network of friends and community members whose lives he touched. As we mourn his passing, we take comfort in knowing that Mateo's spirit lives on through us. We will continue to honor his legacy by showing love, kindness and compassion to everyone around us. Rest in peace, Don Mateo. Your love, laughter and generosity will never be forgotten.

The family will welcome friends and loved ones from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Friday evening at Carroway Funeral Home in Lufkin.

Memories and condolences may be added at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com.

Carroway Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.