José Guzmán Nuñez

José Guzmán Nuñez, 82, closed his eyes on earth and opened them in heaven on Friday, November 3, 2023.

José was born on November 19, 1940 in Rancho Los Negros, Zacatecas, Mexico, to Ignacio Nuñez and Maria Felix Guzmán Nuñez. He grew up with his 2 brothers and 2 sisters and was the only one blessed with beautiful green eyes, thus giving him his lifelong nickname of “El Zarco.” José grew up on his ranch, where he tended to his animals and helped build the ranch home. He would care for and ride his beautiful horses and had many fond memories of him and his brother Santos competing in the local rodeos.

José had to grow up quickly and by the age of 16, he embarked on his journey to America. He was a bracero in California in his teen years and transitioned to work as a cook, working in multiple kitchens in Los Angeles, CA. José was pictured on the front page of the Los Angeles Times protesting for increased wages, while wearing his signature chef hat. He owned and operated two Mexican American restaurants in Los Angeles and two more in San Angelo, TX.

On March 25, 1986, José married the love of his life, Rosa Ordaz Gomez and inherited multiple children and grandchildren that he would love deeply and gave everyone their own nickname. He affectionately became known as “Tata.” They welcomed their daughter, Roxann, and moved to San Angelo, TX in 1991.

José continued his career as a chef, working at Producers Restaurant, Pepe’s Diner, and other local restaurants. He was awarded the title of best menudo in San Angelo in the late 90s, as he enjoyed sharing his love of Mexican delicacies with his very own Zacatecas Restaurant and California Cafe. José will be remembered for his strong work ethic and determination. Not only did he provide for his family, but he continued to provide for his mother and loved ones in Mexico. He would put love into every dish he made for his family and friends. His sense of humor was known far and wide and he made sure to continue the laughs until the very end.

José was preceded in death by his parents, Ignacio and Felix Nuñez; brothers Tomas Nuñez and Santos Nuñez; beloved granddaughter Yvonnette Noriega; son David Reyes; and wife Rosa Nuñez. He is survived by his sisters, Maria Guadalupe Rodriguez Nuñez and husband Felix, and Aurelia Pinedo and husband Rogelio; daughter, Roxann Davila, and beloved son-in-law Benny; his adored grandson Benicio Davila; daughters Linda Pinedo and husband Ruben, Yolanda Carrillo and husband Johnny, Ruth Mar and husband Juan, Dianne Vega, and special grandson Mike Vega as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and grandchildren.

Family will receive visitors on Thursday, November 9, 2023 from 5pm-7pm. A Celebration of Life service for José will be held Friday, November 10, 2023 at 2pm at Harper Funeral Home.