Abiel R. Hinojosa

ABIEL R. HINOJOSA

June 12, 1936- October 15, 2023

Abiel R. Hinojosa, 87, joined our Lord in His heavenly kingdom on Sunday, October 15, 2023.

He was preceded in passing by: his parents, Cipriano and Aida Hinojosa; his siblings, Mary Garcia, Manuel Hinojosa, Irma Heckendorn, and Elida Hinojosa, all whom he loved so dearly.

Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife, Cecilia Hinojosa; his children, Abiel Rolando (Salina) Hinojosa, Ana Cecilia (Braulio) Gloria, and Mario Alberto Hinojosa; his grandchildren, Noah Abiel Hinojosa, Sarah Salina Hinojosa, and Jude Joaquin Hinojosa; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended relatives, and friends.

Abiel “La Peca” leaves behind a great legacy.  He grew up in Harlingen, TX where as a young boy he was often sent by his mother to work at the nearby grocery store and always seemed to end up next door at the billiards hall.  That is where he learned the game of pool and continued playing for over 70 years winning numerous tournaments.  After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force where he served in the Vietnam War.  His love of sports continued as he was the pitcher of their baseball team and known as “Abe Fastball Hinojosa.”  Upon returning from the service, he attended Pan American College in Edinburg, TX earning a degree in Kinesiology and Mathematics.  Soon after, he coached basketball and taught Math at a middle school in nearby Weslaco all while beginning his courtship with his beloved Cecilia.  They married in December of 1971 and enjoyed 51 years of marriage. 

A brief career opportunity led them to Birmingham, Alabama working with the Social Security Administration.  After a couple of years, his career path landed them in Laredo where he became a U.S. Border Patrol Agent all while raising three beautiful children.  Mr. H moved up the ranks to Supervisor, was the Firearms Range Master and retired after 20 years of service.  He was a very dedicated father.  He’d coach his sons’ Little League teams, gathering many neighborhood players in the back of his pickup truck and was later their #1 fan.  He equally supported his daughter’s events taking it upon himself to polish her Larriette Drill Team boots and belt before performances.  That was the kind of man he was. He was a very active man taking part in the Border Olympics running track and competing in the shot-put Seniors Division.  He enjoyed his yearly road trips to Nebraska to visit family and attend the College World Series.  There wasn’t a sport he didn’t enjoy watching.  Although he was known as “La Peca” to many, his grandchildren called him “Popo.”  Abiel lived life to the fullest. He enjoyed dancing, singing, family pachangas and live music up until his last birthday.  He had friends from all walks of life and treated everyone with kindness and respect.  We will miss him dearly. 

The family would like to thank Dr. Zuniga-Goldwater, Altus Hospice Care and Abiel’s caregivers for all their attention and support. 

The family will be receiving condolences on Thursday evening, October 19, 2023 from 5 to 9 p.m. at Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels & Cremation Services, 1410 Jacaman Rd.; where a Vigil for the Deceased and Rosary will commence at 7 p.m.

Local services will conclude Thursday evening. The Rite of Committal and Interment will take place at 2:00 p.m. at the Family Plot of the Restlawn Memorial Park, 14166 US-83 BUS, La Feria, TX 78559 on Friday, October 20, 2023.

You may express your condolences, share your favorite memories, and sign the guestbook online at: www.joejacksonfuneralchapels.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care and direction of the funeral service professionals at Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels & Cremation Services, 1410 Jacaman Rd., Laredo, Texas 78041; (956)722-8850.