Mela was born to Zacarias and Leonor Villarreal on December 3, 1937 in Rodriguez, Nuevo Leon, Mexico. She came to the United States as a teenager, settling in Clute, TX. She received her Associate’s Degree in Rio Bravo, Mexico and was formerly employed as a shrimp packer in Freeport, TX.
Manuela married Marine Gunnery Sergeant Frank Cisneroz on June 16, 1963 in Freeport, Texas. The couple was blessed with two children, Frank and Patricia. While stationed with the Marine Corps in North Carolina, Georgia, and Virginia, they established lifelong friendships. Following retirement from the Marine Corps, Frank and Mela settled down in Houston, TX. They continued to pursue their love of travel and cruises with trips in the United States, Mexico and Europe. Mela enjoyed many hobbies, including bowling, reading, cooking and sewing. She took her love of sewing to a new level when she began to sew drill team costumes, prom dresses, and bridesmaid and wedding dresses for customers in the local area. That love of sewing helped to finance her children’s college educations. Mela was an avid sports fan, attending Houston Astros games, watching the Houston Texans and Dallas Cowboys on television and tailgating in her RV at the Texas Longhorn home football games each season.
Mela was a member of The American Legion Women's Auxiliary Post 490, the Independent Order of Foresters and, as a woman of strong faith, loved serving her church, St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic Church, where she was active for many years.
She is survived by her children, Frank and Patricia, as well as her brother, Jesus Villarreal, and extended family members who will miss her loving spirit, sweet smile, and giving heart.
Mela was preceded in death by her husband of 48 years and her parents.
The viewing with be held at Forest Park East Funeral Home, 21620 Gulf Freeway, Webster, TX on Monday, January 13, 2020 from 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Rosary will begin at 6:00 p.m.
Funeral services will be officiated by Father John on Tuesday, January 14, 2020, at 11:00 a.m. at St Luke the Evangelist Catholic Church, 11011 Hall Road, Houston, TX. Burial will follow at Forest Park East Cemetery.
Serving as Pallbearers will be James Villarreal, Jesse Villarreal, Anthony Villarreal, Martin Villarreal, Jesse Sisneroz, Jerry Sisneroz, Roger Villarreal and Hector Lopez.
The family of Mela Cisneroz wishes to extend its sincere thanks to all the doctors and nurses of the ICU units at Southeast Memorial and Kindred Hospital, the wonderful caregivers from Traditions Health Hospice, and to all who offered prayers, support and comfort.
