EL PASO RECAP

We always enjoy our visits to El Paso. The most recent visit, however, was bittersweet as we said goodbye to my paternal grandfather, Maximo (Max) Almanza. He was 98 years old. Born in Fort Hancock, Texas, Max served the 552nd Motor Ambulance Company as a medic during World War II. After the war, he returned to his family in Fort Hancock and worked for the International Water and Boundary Commission for 35 years until his retirement. A devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, Max believed in faith, hard work and charity. He always gave what money he had to his kids, be it a raspa on a hot afternoon or a bag of popcorn and a Coke at the gas station. He loved his tocayo, Sebastian Maximo, so much, and we are happy he was able to meet him and hold him a few times before passing. Now he can give a first-hand account to Eva, Celia and Alberto what it was like to hold their great-grandson. It was a wonderful weekend filled with family, remembrance and, of course, a few rounds at Chico's Tacos. My father delivered a touching eulogy and had an absolute ball showing Sebastian off to the family. Sebastian also visited Grandma Maria's shop and finally got to sit in the big machines. Vaya con dios, Grandpa Max. We will miss you terribly. 

Nicholas