My name is Jesus Estrada from San Antonio, TX.  I was born in Marathon, Texas and was raised in Marathon, Texas.  
My memory of Zeke is that he was a kind, gentle man.  Every time we met in Marathon during these last few years, mostly for funerals, we would visit and catch up on the happenings of our lives.  He would recollect his boyhood days when he lived in Marathon.   He was a thoughtful man and would tell me that he would bring pan dulce to his relatives in Marathon and the Big Bend National Park.  He would tell of his experiences in Europe during his military service and inquire about my military service.  
I am especially grateful to him for his comfort, understanding and advice when my wife passed in 2015.  My son and I were returning to San Antonio from Ft. Stockton, TX after making funeral arrangements.  My son was driving and about three hours from San Antonio my phone rang and it was Zeke.  He expressed his condolences and for the next three hours we talked, but mostly it was Zeke offering comfort and telling of his experience during a time when his family underwent a tragic family loss.  To this date I recall that drive with fondness.
I will miss his friendly smile and his words of encouragement.
Rest in peace, my friend.

Dear Santiago family, 
   Today my daughter Iris, went to go pay her respect to her friend's father passing away. When she told me  your husband/father's name, little did she know that in 1982, Mr. Santiago was my 6th grade Spanish teacher at Burleson. I want to give you my deepest condolences for the passing of my dearest Spanish teacher. He was a kind and respectful to all his students and always had a big smile. I will always cherish the day he visited me in the hospital with a box of chocolates. May he rest in eternal peace.

Kind regards, 
Virginia Mena

My name is Ramon Canaba, Jr.,my uncle was Tony Santiago senior, he was married to my aunt Lupe Nunez, I had the honor and privilege of knowing Ezequiel most of my life! I recall him when he was an educator/teacher along with Pali Sanchez and others in the school system for decades! He and his associates demanded and earned the highest respect in the education system !! The last time I saw Ezequiel was, at my uncle Tony's services, I took a picture of him Pali and another person. I too am a UTEP ALUMNI Class of 83' and a Vietnam Veteran 🇺🇸 aso, my deepest condolences to his loved ones and ,my salute to him for his service and appreciation for it ! GO MINORS! REST IN PEACE my Brother in arms👍🖤🙏

My deepest condolences to all of the Santiago Family. I recall “uncle Zeke “ as my comadre (Minnie) Herminia called him as her favorite uncle. He was definitely one of the kindest persons that I ever met. Sometimes I would run into him at the auto service center at Walmart or see him at Saint Rafael‘s Catholic Church. He would talk about all the people he knew from Van Horn. He never forgot about Van  Horn as that was special to him. May he rest in eternal peace in God‘s loving arms.

Alicia Ibanez Nunez

Mari and Lisa, I am so sorry for your loss. Your dad was such a kind and social person- I remember running into him at the store a few times, always chatting with someone and sharing a smile. He had a wonderful way of making people feel seen and welcome. I hope that the many fond memories you shared bring you comfort in the days ahead. Thinking of you and your family during this difficult time.

Evita, Mari and Lizzie, I met you girls over 50 years ago I am a friend of your Dad  and Mom, my deepest condolences I know your Dad will be greatly missed God Bless You
Lorenzo Almanza

Evita, Mari and Lizzie, girls I met you when you were young and that’s what your Dad called you, my deepest condolences, your Dad was a great man and friend I had known he and your mom for over 50’years, I know he will be greatly missed, he left a wonderful legacy as an educator and wonderful man
RIP MY FRIEND 
Lorenzo Almanza

Mari and Elizabeth my deepest condolences to you and your whole family. May God embrace you all with strength and peace in your hearts. Lovingly Norma and Angel Herrera.

Nino, you will be immensely missed. Thank you for so many wonderful memories that I hold dear to my heart. I find comfort in knowing you are with all those who have gone before us especially your brothers and sister in Heaven. Love you love you 

Nina, Lisa, Mari, Lauren, Krystal and Chris, I’m so sorry for your great loss. May Diosito wrap you in his loving arms. Love y’all~Bonnie

OBITUARY

Esequiel Briceno Santiago

December 19, 1932 – October 11, 2025

Funeraria del Angel Central

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