Alois Munzer

Alois Munzer died Sunday, October 24, 2010 peacefully with his family by his side. Alois was born May 28, 1941 in Koflach, Austria to Franz and Rosa Munzer. He was the youngest of seven siblings. He came to the United States in 1967 from Austria. While working in Ruidoso, NM as a chef and ski instructor, he met some Midlanders who convinced him to move to West Texas to open a restaurant. In 1972 he opened La Bodega Restaurant in Midland and a few years later he opened another in Odessa, TX. Many of his employees worked with him for over 30 years and he considered them to be family. Especially Lupe Reyes, who stood by his side for over a quarter of a century and took care of him day in and day out. He was also eternally grateful for the open arms of West Texans who not only supported his business, but became his lifelong friends. When he returned home from Europe last week he stated that although he loved Austria, he was so glad to be home because there is no place like Texas. A special thanks to the employees of Aus Mex and La Bodega and the people of West Texas ~ you helped a farm boy from Austria realize his dream. Alois is survived by three daughters, Ilona Logue, Andrea McCauley and Olivia Munzer; four grandchildren, Sophie, Evan, Ethan and Maggie; and his dog, Tiger. Memorial services have been scheduled for 3:00 P.M. Thursday, October 28, 2010 at the Ellis Funeral Home Chapel. Arrangements are under the direction of Ellis Funeral Home. Condolences may be offered at www.ellisfunerals.com.