In the very early morning hours of April 15, 2023, Jose "Joe" Martinez Vela Sr. went home to be with his lord and savior after a lengthy illness. He was surrounded by close family at the time of his death and received a touching military honor service from Mansfield Methodist hospital staff and police officers.

Joe Vela Sr. was born in Gregory, TX on October 10, 1927 to his parents Donacio and Regina Vela. He was always an adventurous soul with charming wit and a mischievous smile.

He met the love of his life Susie Carrasco when he was just five years old. The soulmates were neighbors and grew up as friends. Joe enlisted in the Army during World War II and served until he was given an honorable discharge. Upon his return home from the Army, he married Susie on February 7, 1947.

They made their modest home in the small and dusty town of Muleshoe, TX and raised 13 children – ten boys and three girls. Joe made his living as as a senior operator at the Muleshoe grain elevator until his retirement.

Joe was known for his fierce loyalty to the Dallas Cowboys and his love of Western and war movies. He delighted in what some would call embellished storytelling, which earned him a "Home of the Whopper" sign that proudly displayed on his living room wall.

His family and friends adored Joe but will take comfort in the numerous memories he left them. He leaves behind a legacy of proud children and grandchildren who have followed his example and served in the military.

Joe is survived by his wife Susie; his three daughters Susan, Christene and Becky; his ten sons, Joe Jr., Bobby, Tony, Charlie, Julian, Danny, Ernie, Freddy, George, and David; and more than 100 grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

A rosary will be held at 9 a.m. Friday, April 28, 2023 at St. Michael the Archangel Church, Grand Prairie, followed by Mass at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to American Heart Association.