Jose Luis (Joe) Mendietta of Bishop died in Kingsville on June 15, 2021, at the age of 61, after a long illness. Joe was born on January 14, 1960, in Kingsville Texas. His parents were Lorenzo Q. and Elodia G. Mendietta. He was raised in Kingsville and learned horsemanship and ranching from his father and relatives. In his youth Joe continued the family legacy and worked as a King Ranch vaquero (his dream job), leaving in the early 1980s to serve in the U.S. Army. While in the U.S. Army, Joe competed in the military rodeo circuit winning the European championship while serving in Nuremberg Germany. The U.S. Army recognized his talent with horses and selected him as a trainer for the Cavalry, but he chose to return home. To remain active in ranching, he worked cattle for many of the large ranches in South Texas on a project basis and roped competitively. Always having an interest in structure and architecture, he embarked on a career as a carpenter ending his career as a project manager when illness forced an unplanned retirement. Though bound to a wheelchair, Joe remained involved in selected activities that brought him joy, especially helping his children break and train their first 'green' horses.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents and his sisters Virginia Sylvia Mendietta and Delfina Mendietta Ramirez. He is survived by his children Valentin Mendietta and Micaela Mendietta of Bishop, their mother and his best friend Norma Martinez of Bishop, his brother Uvence (Diana) Mendietta of Palestine, and several nieces and nephews.
Joe's family is grateful for the care provided and compassion shown by Christus Spohn Hospice, Altus Hospice, and the nursing and CNA staff at Lone Star Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center of Kingsville.
Per Joe's wishes, no public visitation or memorial service will be held. In lieu of flowers, consider making donations to charities of your choice.