Julio Izquierdo "Pa" Eulology

Julio Izquierdo, known as "Pa" by those who loved him, was a son, brother, cousin, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and a dear friend. He joined the army at the age of 22 and proudly served his country during World War II in Normandy, Northern France, and Rhineland from 1940-1945.

When the war was over and Pa returned to Laredo, Pa would visit the plazas in Nuevo Laredo and socialize with the people as was accustomed in the 1940s. There he met a beautiful angel who would be his loving wife, Olga (our Ma), and his lifetime soulmate. Pa and Ma courted for eight years! Yes, a long relationship before getting married. Pa and Ma got married in 1953 in Laredo. They lived in a little house next to his Tia Linda's house. Pa and Ma had their first baby girl two years later and their first boy the following year. As the family grew bigger year after year to a total of  nine kids, they rented a bigger house.

Pa worked as a clerk at the Knoll Creamery for many years. He always brought ice-cream sandwiches and drumsticks to his children and the neighborhood kids. What a treat that was! He then worked at the Laredo Housing Authority for the City of Laredo for 36 years. He seldom missed work even though he would be sick. He educated his nine children and instilled a good work ethic in them.

Pa was a very smart man. He read Popular Science Magazines and books and acquired plumbing, electricity, and engineer design skills. He built his house with his two bare hands and a little help from his three sons. They set the foundation, laid blocks, and slowly completed the house on his property in south Laredo where he would continue to provide for his family. Everything he did, he did for his children.

Pa was proud of his service to our country. He vividly recalled his war experiences and would entertain anyone who was fortunate to listen to his storytelling. He talked about the people he met and places he saw abroad. He especially loved to sing a traditional war song, "It's a Long Way to Tipperary," until his last few days.

Pa was recognized for his military service by Senator Cornyn's Office shortly after his 100 ^th birthday. Amongst his eight medals he received were the Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal, and Campaign Medal with 3 Bronze Stars. This special recognition was shared by his children and grandchildren who attended and saw his broad, happy smile.

Pa was a very strong person. It was his faith in God, that he endured so much during his long, blessed life. When asked what makes you happy, he would say one word-God. He loved people watching, bird watching, and singing traditional Mexican songs like "El Rancho Grande," "Cielito Lindo," and "La Cucaracha."

Pa was the patriarch of the Izquierdo family. He brought the family together by instilling the value of family unity in his children who traditionally and faithfully gathered throughout the years to celebrate birthdays, Christmas and Thanksgiving holidays. Ma and Pa were the reason why everyone gathered together, and Pa continued that path after her passing. It is these memories of holiday celebrations and family gatherings filled with love, happiness, and peace that are the greatest legacy to his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Pa loved life so much and he was blessed to live 102 years. He unselfishly loved and cared for everyone he met.

At this time, let's have a few moments of silence so we can think about the most unique, treasured memory of Pa.

Treasure that memory.