Jose Mendiola

Jose was born on January 22, 1946, in Robstown, Texas, to Merced Mendiola Sr. and Manuela Loa Mendiola. As a young boy, he worked alongside his father and brothers picking cotton, an experience that instilled in him the strong work ethic that would guide him throughout his life.

While recovering from back surgery, Jose met the love of his life, Adelina Padia. They were married on December 31 and shared 57 beautiful years of marriage together. The couple later moved to Wisconsin, where Jose worked for the city in waste disposal while they built their life and raised their family.

In 1980, Jose fulfilled his lifelong dream by opening Chente’s Restaurant in Alice, Texas. The restaurant quickly became a beloved part of the community and remains open to this day. Jose took great pride in his cooking and was especially known for his enchiladas and fajitas, favorites that customers looked forward to each week.

Jose was preceded in death by his parents, Merced Mendiola and Manuela Loa Mendiola; his daughter, Lisa Ann Jackson Mendiola; and his brothers and sisters Lucy, Juan, Awdon, Mike, Merced Jr., Carmen, and Carlos Barrera.

He is survived by his loving wife, Adelina Mendiola; his daughter Deborah “Dolly” Garcia and son-in-law John Garcia; and his son Brandon Merced Mendiola. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren Kyle Carter, Kayla Carter, and Eric Sabr Vicente Mendiola, as well as numerous nieces and nephews who will remember him with love.

Jose also held a special place in his heart for Amanda Liguez, who became like family to him over the years.

Jose will be remembered as a hardworking man, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and a dreamer who built something lasting for his family and community. One of his favorite sayings was:

“You gotta be able to smell the roses.”

His legacy lives on through his family, his restaurant, and the many lives he touched throughout the years.

The family would like to thank the City of Alice, Chente’s loyal customers, and the many employees who helped make the restaurant a lasting part of the community. Special thanks to Juan F., Aurora B., Angie G., Nilda G., Hope N., Tanya P., Jenny O., and Arturo A., as well as Ron Segura for their friendship and dedication.

The family also extends heartfelt gratitude to Enso Hospice for their compassion and care during Jose’s final days.

In lieu of flowers, the family will be establishing a GoFundMe to assist with the cost of Jose’s headstone.