Saturday, October 16, 2021
Years ago our families’ paths crossed - next door neighbors in old East Austin. As children we were school mates and friends with Victor and Mary’s kids. Lifelong friendships that time and distance cannot erase. Our parents were friends, compadres and even godparents to my brother’s son; Mary is godmother to my sister. We were never told to respect Victor and Mary Suniga, but the way they treated my parents begat respect. They were a living example of “treat others as you wish to be treated.” Memories take me back to Victor’s beloved black pickup truck from the late 60’s and early 70’s…I believe he called her “The Black Beauty.” I remember our family and theirs loading up in that pickup to go to the Fiesta Drive-In in Montopolis or trick-or-treating where he knew the kids would get the best and most candy. The family gatherings and parties…So many good times and cherished memories of a strong, loving husband, father and dear friend. My first friend at Zavala Elementary was Bernice, my sisters graduated with Victor, Jr (Sonne) from Del Valle High in 1977. Years later in the 90’s we reconnected with Victor and Janie and then years after that our family was hosting the Bingo at the Dolores Church Jamaica and we needed a bilingual caller and Angel stepped in to help us. The good times are in our hearts as is the memory of a wonderful man who left a legacy of a life well lived and a beautiful family. Sincere condolences to the entire Suniga family from the family of Frances Ancira.
