Mechanic became avid Cowboys fan

Manuel Sotelo Baeza Jr. “Beer,” 87, of Marfa, Texas, passed away on April 23, 2026, in Marfa.

Visitation was from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, May 1, at the Alpine Memorial Funeral Home Chapel located at 209 W. Sul Ross Avenue in Alpine.

Rosary began at 10 a.m. with the funeral Mass immediately following on Saturday, May 2, at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in Marfa with Fr. Edroud Jean officiating. Burial followed at Saint Mary’s Catholic Cemetery. Arrangements are entrusted to Alpine Memorial Funeral Home.

Manuel Sotelo Baeza was born on March 21, 1939, to Manuel and Maria Baeza in Marfa. He graduated from Marfa High School in 1959. He married the love of his life, Maria Rosa Villanueva, on November 27, 1963, in Marfa. He worked as a maintenance mechanic for the United States Border Patrol for 17 years before getting injured on the job. He served honorably in the United States Army and was awarded several service medals as well as an honorable discharge.

He was a proud member of Saint Mary’s Church and would volunteer when needed. He spent 57 beautiful years with the love of his life, “Guera,” and he truly loved her and missed her greatly after her passing. He was an avid Dallas Cowboys fan and never failed to watch them play, proudly wearing his jersey. He cherished spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. This would always put a smile on his face. He also enjoyed hanging out at Alex’s Texaco with his friends watching boxing and other sporting events. He also took great pride in the upkeep of his rose garden and backyard. He enjoyed watching his westerns and novelas. He will be truly missed as he has made a huge impact on his family’s lives.

Manuel Sotelo Baeza is preceded in death by his father, Manuel Mendias Baeza, mother, Maria Baeza, and his wife, Maria Rosa “Guera” Baeza.

Manuel Sotelo Baeza is survived by his son, Manuel V. Baeza and wife Darla; daughter Lorena Beatty and husband David; daughter Martha Carrillo and husband Miguel; daughter Victoria Sanchez; daughter Rosemary McGuire and husband Sammy. He leaves behind 10 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his BFF, “Bambino.”

Pallbearers were Isaac McGuire, Larry Serrano, Calvin Beatty, Derek Vaughn, Oscar Gonzalez, and Diego Gonzales.