Weslaco-Daniel “Chore” Rios Jr., 67, passed away on Sunday, January 30, at Knapp Medical Center in Weslaco after a courageous battle with cancer. On May 19, 1954, Daniel was born to Daniel Rios Sr. and Enriqueta (Amador) Rios in Weslaco, Texas. Daniel worked for Weslaco ISD twenty-three years in the maintenance department.
On June 14, 1990, Daniel met Idalia Peña, and they spent the rest of their lives together. Daniel and Idalia raised Christopher, Megan, and Daniel III. Daniel had recently retired and was taking full advantage of spending time with his family. He took Daniel III, his youngest son, to school every day and picked him up. As a result, the two could bond and have some priceless visits the past couple of years.
Daniel was a die-hard Dallas Cowboys fan. He was also a cowboy himself, always sporting a nice cowboy hat. He loved barbecue, listening and dancing to Tejano music, and spending time with family. Daniel had a joyful spirit and could lighten any mood with a joke. Daniel also had a green thumb and loved to work in the yard.
Daniel kept up with current events and never missed the news. He and the family took many road trips where they made priceless memories.
Daniel is preceded in death by his parents, Daniel Sr. and Enriqueta Rios, and brother, Mario Rios.
He is survived by his wife, Idalia Peña-Rios, children Christopher Lee Peña, Megan Danielle Rios, and Daniel Rios III, two other daughters, and one other son. He is also survived by two sisters; Lucia (Salomeꝉ) Rodriguez and Oralia (Frank) Mendoza, one half-sister, Velma Martinez Salinas; two step-sisters; Alma (Daniel) Barroso, Nancy (Martin) Lopez; one brother; Rogelio (Norma) Rios and numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be Wednesday, February 2nd, 10 am-9 pm, with a rosary at 7 pm. Mass will be celebrated at 10 am, Thursday, February 3, at 10 am, at St. Pius X Catholic Church in Weslaco.
Pallbearers will be: Braulio (Ralph) Peña, Braulio (Ralphy) Pena Jr., Nasario Peña III, Marky Rodriguez, Rogelio Rios, John Cortez.