Family pays tribute to Billy Enriquez

I love you most, Papa

By Anicia B

Bill Enriquez, my papa, but, most importantly, my dad. He’s so kind and always wants to help. The most selfless man there is, he’s learned to have some patience but not much, lol. He is so hardworking, always walks around with a smile on his face; he is a hero in my eyes.

My papa has been the most amazing father any girl could ever ask for. We would watch John Wayne movies in the living room and fall asleep together, have long motorcycle rides since I was 3. We would go all the way up the mountain and go fast all the way down. To driving around in my pink corvette with the top off (that everyone fights for and thinks it’s theirs).

My favorite memory of them all is when he got the guitar out and started singing me my favorite song ‘ella es la reina de mi amor.’ My papa knows exactly how to put a smile on his babies’ face!

He always has the best advice; always put God first, go to school and get your degrees, get a good paying job, and most importantly don’t worry about the boys. The world is full of hate, and you taught me to always see the good in things.

No gift could ever match the one you’ve given me. The gift of your love, your time, and your care. Your influence has shaped me into the person I am today, and for that I am forever grateful.

Happy Father’s Day to a man whose strength isn’t just in his hands, but in his heart.

I love you most- Anicia B.

You are our rock, Papa

By Drea and Miyah 

Papa, I can’t truly put into words what you mean to me and my daughter. You are one of a kind, compassionate, a jokester, and wise beyond your years.

I am so thankful to have you in our lives. Whenever I’m needing a quick history lesson or a belly grabbing laugh, you are there.

We are so proud of you and all of your accomplishments.

You are the rock to our family. We love you!

Happy Fathers Day.

‘He never let me give up’: A son’s tribute to Billy Enriquez

By Rick Enriquez

My dad  is the driving force in my life. He is a man who has never let me give up and kept me in a straight line with love and guidance.

He has an unwavering positivity for life and only sees the good in people and treats every person special.

The love he has for his community,  city and people of Abilene is genuine and I’ve never seen him tire making the community better. For anyone who asks for his help, he is always available and willing to help people with anything they have a need for.

My father puts family and friends  before himself, and I’ve never seen him worry about himself. His work ethic from young childhood shaped his life and formed a pattern of him working hard and selflessly.

He has taught me to put the Lord first in my life and to always depend on God’s grace and love.

My goal in life is to have his positive attitude and love for life. As a kid, I watched him participate in many organizations and make sure every person had a equal chance.

A daughter’s tribute: ‘You are pretty close to perfect’

By Heather

It’s funny how views on life change as you grow. As a child I would often feel frustrated as it seemed everyone always needed something from my dad. Whether it was his time, advice or resources, he rarely said no.

I realize now that not everyone has a father like mine. Someone who is always a call away, who has steered me in life’s tough decisions, pushed me when I’ve wanted to give up, and cheered alongside my achievements.

He jokingly says, “It’s hard being perfect all the time,” and the truth is, in my eyes, you are pretty close to perfect.

Love you dad!

My grandpa

By Mario

Dear Papa,

I love you, Pop. This man is one of the most intelligent, kind, loving and funny people in my life. He is tied for second as the most important man in my life — first is God, then him and my father.

This man is a great brother, a leader, and a great child of God.

One of the best memories I have of him is when we worked on a project together when I was little. Afterwards, my grandma, Oma, took a photo of us, and that is one of the best pictures ever.

I could write a whole essay about this man, and if I did, there would be no room for anyone else. So I’m going to finish with this:

Pop, I love you a lot. Through these years, I’ve learned so much from you — how to be a better man, a better brother, a better son, a better leader, and a better son of God.
Thank you papa.

This brought me to tears writing this, and I just want you to know how much I love and appreciate you.

Love your favorite grandson, Mario