Cecilio Hinojosa

Chico was known and beloved by many as a long-time, local restaurateur who began his restaurant career in the Valley when he opened his first restaurant, “Old Mexico”, in El Centro Mall in 1972. His passion for made-from-scratch, Tex-Mex food served cafeteria-style quickly grew to be a favorite spot for many locals, earning a reputation for the best enchiladas, fajitas, chile rellenos, and homemade flour tortillas. Paving the way for many other local concepts in existence today, Chico was a joyful pioneer whose legacy is still seen and enjoyed throughout this community.

Chico was actively involved with the Texas Restaurant Association, and honorably served as president twice, in 1984 and 1985. He was also chairman and co-chairman of Taste of the Valley in 1983 and 1984. Throughout his accomplished professional career, he always kept charitable causes close to his heart and was active in fundraising for Easter Seals and United Funds, along with numerous other good causes.

Chico was a passionate man who loved to cook and travel. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and fierce friend. He was a cheerful soul and a man of strong faith and perseverance. He was the Patriarch whom God called to be the cornerstone of our family. We will always cherish our memories of his loving smile, and his incredibly kind eyes.

Chico leaves behind a large family of 9 children, 18 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife Lidia Hinojosa and 8 siblings:

Mercedes (Roberto) Pena

Maria Cila Munoz

Gloria (Robert) Rich

Terri Hernandez

Uvaldo (Mary) Hinojosa, Jr.

Lucila (Raymond) Gomez

Eddie (Janie) Hinojosa

Josie (Terry) Tobey

A visitation for Cecilio will be held Tuesday, October 19, 2021 from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Funeraria Del Angel.

The funeral service will take place Wednesday, October 20, 2021 at 10:00 AM, at Funeraria Del Angel.

The burial will occur Wednesday, October 20, 2021 at 11:00 AM at Valley Memorial Gardens.