Erasmo "Juan" Marez

Erasmo “Juan” Marez, 76, was born on May 22, 1950, in Los Indios, Texas, to the late Evodio and Guadalupe Marez. His upbringing and most childhood memories were made in his cherished state of Nuevo Leon. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and respected patriarch of his family.

Juan lived a life defined by hard work, quiet strength, devotion, and love for those closest to him. At the age of 17 he migrated and began working as a laborer in the agricultural fields. With determination and a strong work ethic, he worked toward building his own American Dream.

Juan held a unique place within his family as the only one of his siblings born in the United States. This became more than simply a circumstance of his birth, it became an opportunity for him to help those he loved. As a young man, Juan was able to help his mother and later assist his siblings in coming to the United States, giving them the opportunity to pursue their own American Dream.

His willingness to open doors for his family was one of the many ways he demonstrated his devotion to them and helped shape the lives of generations that followed. He later settled in Houston, Texas, where he met the love of his life, Norma Miranda. Together, Juan and Norma shared 52 years of marriage, building a life and family rooted in love, perseverance, and commitment.

Their union was blessed with four children: Aurelia, Michelle, Erasmo, and Angelica. Juan spent much of his working life as a welder and mechanic, trades that reflected his natural ability to work with his hands, solve problems, and provide for his family. He understood the value of an honest day’s work and carried that same sense of responsibility throughout every part of his life.

To his family Juan was much more than a hardworking man. He was their source of strength, wisdom, and guidance. He was a man of few words, but when Juan spoke, his words carried meaning. His siblings respected his judgment, and whenever an important decision needed to be made or advice was needed, Juan was often the first person they called. His steady presence brought reassurance, and his family knew they could depend on him.

Juan loved the game of baseball. He was a devoted fan of the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Houston Astros, and watching baseball brought him great enjoyment throughout the years. Juan also enjoyed folktales music, "Mexican corridos", which originated from his beloved state of Nuevo León.

Those who knew Juan will also remember the personality behind his quiet nature. Among the words that will continue to bring smiles and memories to his family is one of his familiar sayings: “You gotta be kidding me.”