Joel Mendoza, Sr., 64, died Friday, August 12, 2011 in Dalhart, TXPrayer Vigil was held at 7:00 pm Monday, August 15, 2011 at St. Anthonys Catholic Church, Dalhart, Texas Funeral Mass was held at 10:00 am Tuesday, August 16, 2011 at St. Anthonys Catholic Church, Dalhart, Texas with Father Scott L. Raef, Pastor officiating. Burial followed in Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Horizon FuneralHome, Dalhart, Texas. Joel Mendoza, Sr. was born March 10, 1947 in Candelaria, TX to Benito and Guadalupe (Jurado) Mendoza. Joel grew up in Hereford. He farmed and ranched all his life. He played the guitar, loved to sing, fish, and rope. His family was his passion; he enjoyed bar-b-Qing with his kids and instilled in them the same feelings about Family First and this love of music. Joel was always making people laugh with his funny faces, and saying funny things. He also enjoyed a good scare with his scary masksSurvivors include his special friend: Gina Matthews of Dalhart, TX - Sons: Joel Mendoza, Jr. of Dalhart, TX, Gilbert Mendoza of Waka, TX, Albert Mendoza of Dalhart, TX, Thomas Mendoza of Sequin, TX - Daughters: Sandra Guardiola of Dalhart, TX, Linda Mendoza of Dalhart, TX, Marie Hernandez of Dalhart, TX . Stepsons- Shawn Matthews of Littlefield, TX and Bryan Matthews of Sequin, TX and stepdaughter Chandra Godinez of McQueeney, TX.14 Grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren and 7 step-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, and two brothers.