Apolinar Arteaga, Sr. of Fredonia made his journey to heaven on Thursday, February 17, at the age of 96.  Mr. Arteaga was a hard-working man who labored in farming in Fredonia for many years before retiring.  He spent his free time cultivating his yearly garden especially a juicy watermelon; and enjoyed his time with his family.  He was an avid Dallas Cowboys and Mason Puncher fan.  He watched his last Superbowl game this year and it didn't matter who was playing as he enjoyed the sport just the same.  Even at the passing of his dear wife Mr. Arteaga maintained a close relationship with his family from Dallas, Garland, San Antonio, and Houston.  He will be greatly missed by his family, and all the friends he made throughout the years he lived in Mason County.

Mr. Arteaga is survived by two daughters, Juana and husband Reynol Garza of Fredonia, Maria O. and husband Federico Sr. from Mason, three sons J. Ambrocio Arteaga and wife Eva of Mason, Apolinar Arteaga and departed wife Erminia of Brady, and Mario O Arteaga of Fredonia, and a daughter in law Barbara Arteaga of departed son Miguel of Mason.  Mr. Arteaga is also survived by 10 Grandchildren, 14 Great Grandchildren, and 7 Great-Great Grandchildren, a brother, Ramon Martinez and a sister, Anastacia Mendoza.  He is preceded in death by his wife Juana O Arteaga, his son Miguel Arteaga, and two grandsons, Alexander R. Arteaga and Miguel A. Arteaga; two other young children, Mario and Jacinta.

Please wear a mask for the visitation with the family on Sunday, February 20, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Mason Funeral Home with a Rosary at 7:00 pm.  The funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, February 21, at 11:00 am at St. Joseph Catholic Church.  Interment will follow in the Wagram Cemetery.

The family would like to thank the staff of Solaris Hospice, and staff of Elara Home Health, especially Jessica, Joseph, PJ, and Joyce. Many blessings to you for your kind treatment and excellent care of Mr. Apolinar Arteaga, Sr.

Condolences may be sent to the family on-line at masonfuneralhome.net