A Magazine About Mexican-American
Culture and Heritage in
South Texas and Mexico

 IN MEMORIAM

 José Ozuna — Vaquero Número Uno
5/5/1908 - 12/22/1998


Don José Ozuna on his Palomino horse
"Tornado"

When El Mesteño started writing stories on vaqueros of South Texas, Don José Ozuna was my unanimous pick for my first story. On December 22, 1998 Don José Ozuna passed away. El Mesteño expresses its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Don José. His legacy will live on as he taught many, young and old, the tricks of the trade of being a Vaquero.

May he rest in peace with the Lord.

Vaqueros escorting Don José's funeral procession from St. Theresa Catholic Church to the Premont, Texas cemetery. L to R: Travis Solomon, Cesario Ozuna, Richard Mata, Martin Martinez, Dusty Solomon, Tomás Barrera, Ramiro Martinez Jr., Joe Gonzalez, Don José's horse... Tornado, and Luis "Mo' Ramirez.

Funeral Procession
Vaquero escort led by Don José's son, Cesario Ozuna, crossing U.S. Highway 281 on way to Premont Cemetery.


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