Alphonse \Poncho\ Mendez, Jr., 90, of Big Spring, died Wednesday, May 20, 2015 in El Paso, Texas. Vigil services will be 7:00 PM Monday, June 1, 2015 at the Nalley-Pickle & Welch Rosewood Chapel. Funeral services will be 11:00 AM Tuesday, June 2, 2015 at the Holy Trinity Catholic Parish. Interment with military honors will follow at Trinity Memorial Park.He was born April 9, 1925 in Big Spring, Texas and married Eloise Puga June 7, 1947 in Big Spring. She preceded him in death December 17, 2005.Poncho was a lifelong resident of Big Spring and attended Big Spring High School and received his associate degree from Howard College. He served in the United States Navy during World War II on the USS Denver. After returning to Big Spring, he worked at the Big Spring Veterans Administration Medical Center as a lab technician for 35 years. After retiring from the VA he worked as a greeter and cashier at the Spanish Inn and Alberto's Crystal Cafe.He was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Parish and had been a longtime member and helped build Sacred Heart Catholic Church.Poncho enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, traveling and dancing. He touched many lives and was a inspiration to them all. He will be greatly missed by family and friends.Survivors include one son, Al Mendez and wife, Mary of El Paso; two brothers, Edward G. Mendez and wife, Sylvia of Big Spring, and Albert Mendez and wife, Ofelia of Parris, California; two sisters, Margie Deanda and husband, Albert, and Josie Sanchez and husband, Mike all of Big Spring; two grandchildren, Michael Mendez and wife, Tiffany of El Paso and Sheila Cooksey and husband, Darrell of Leander; three great-grandchildren, Phoebe, Cameryn and Caraline; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Alfonso and Josefa Garcia Mendez; and a brother, Ralph Mendez. The family suggests memorials to any DAV organization.Arrangements under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Big Spring. Online condolences may be made at: www.npwelch.com,
