Xavier Herrera

Xavier “X” Herrera, proud father and grandfather, passed away on Saturday, December 21, 2019 at the age of 67 in Edinburg, TX. Xavier was born in Chicago, IL on February 18, 1952 to Rosalinda (nee. De La Torre) and Francisco Herrera. He spent his early childhood in Queretaro, Mexico, moving back to the US at 14, and graduated from Wells High School in Chicago where he participated in ROTC. Xavier honorably served for 4 years in the US Air Force, and was stationed in Guam during the Vietnam War. When he left the service, Xavier spent the next few years traveling the world -- notably spending time in Europe (Sweden, France, and Spain), visited Cuba, and Acapulco, Mexico. After spending a few years as an independent jeweler, Xavier learned trade skills at Madison Area Technical College and worked as a construction worker for 20 years as a member of the LiUNA Laborers’ Local 464 in Madison, WI. "X" had friends everywhere, and it wouldn’t be a surprise to run into a familiar face at a grocery store, bar, or neighborhood festival. His smile and laugh would light up any room, and he was always willing to lend a hand whether helping to pave a driveway or haul things in his truck. Xavier became certified in SCUBA in 1980, and enjoyed many years of his retirement diving and exploring the ocean, finding lost items and following fish and sea turtles through sunken ships. Shortly after retirement he moved to Alton, Texas so that he could be closer to Mexico, where he took annual trips to Acapulco. He enjoyed diving, deep sea fishing, and even zip-lining above the ocean. He always captured photos of his adventures, and enjoyed sharing stories. He was a man of many talents - in early years, jewelry making, and in later years, woodworking. He built many items in his home, including beds, tables and picture frames, and was very proud of the workshop he fashioned in his garage. He also enjoyed cooking and collected different spices and ingredients to experiment with. Xavier will be forever remembered by his children, Xochil (Tim) Scheer and Adrian (Meghan); grandchildren Eva Jean and Emilano Xavier; mother Rosalinda De La Garza; siblings Lourdes Muñoz, Rosalie, Sergio, Luis Lugo and Emily Enriquez; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by sister Bertha, father Francisco, step-mother Consuelo, and step-father Perfecto. Family and friends are invited to attend memorial services on Sunday February 16, 2020. Mass will be held at 11:00am at St. Mary of the Angels Catholic Church, 1850 N Hermitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60622. Memorial Service and lunch will follow from 12:00 to 4:00pm at Irazu, 1865 N Milwaukee Ave. Chicago IL 60647. Services will begin at about 12:30pm. Should friends desire, flowers or contributions may be sent to: Xochil’s home (please contact for address) https://www.projectaware.org/ https://oceandefenders.org/ https://www.cancer.org/involved/donate.html