Baltazar "Balde" Jose Vela

Baltazar “Balde” Jose Vela, passed into eternal life on July 15, 2023 in the presence of his loving family. He was born in Alice, Texas on April 5, 1948 to Pedro Baltazar Vela and Jilma Montemayor Vela. He was raised in Alice, Texas. He served 11 years in the National Guard, and worked in the oil field and armored car industry for many years.

He was a dedicated youth minister for Our Lady of Guadalupe in Alice, TX for over a decade. He founded the Lords Rangers for the purpose of reaching out to teens and bringing them closer to Christ. Additionally, he helped launch the Teens Encounter Christ Retreat with Bishop Louis Kihneman and organized over 50 retreats throughout the Coastal Bend. Many people were impacted by his life.

Balde’s loved ones will forever remember him for his smile, laughter, generosity, musical talent, creativity, craftsmanship, and BBQ.

Balde leaves a powerful example of a dedicated man to the Lord and grounding each breathe in perseverance and faith. We are grateful knowing he is at peace with his father, mother and 4 passed siblings.

He is survived by his daughter, Ann Marie Godines, her husband David Godines, and their children Kriselda Fuentes, Michelle Godines Ramirez, Jon Godines and their spouses; his younger son, Pedro Vela and his daughters Kelsey Clark and her spouse and Brianna Vela, and his 6 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings Adelina Cruise and Jose Vela (Linda Vela). He was a beloved uncle to his many nephews and nieces.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Friday, July 21, 2023 at Holmgreen Mortuary. A Holy Rosary will be recited at 12:00 PM on Friday, July 21, 2023 at Holmgreen Mortuary. A Funeral Service with Military Honors will follow at 12:30 PM. All Services will conclude at the Funeral Home.

Arrangements are entrusted to Holmgreen Mortuary, 2061 East Main Street, Alice, Texas.

Condolences for the family may be offered at www.HolmgreenMortuaryInc.com and shared via Holmgreen Mortuary Facebook.

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