Joe "Chacho" Bernal Jr.

Joe Angel “Chacho or Chachito” Bernal went to be with our Lord & Savior on Saturday, January 9, 2021 at the age of 78, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable memories & unquestionable integrity.

Joe was born on January 2nd, 1943 to Appolonia Ybarra in Bryan, Texas.

As a young boy and the oldest of 12, Joe sacrificed his childhood and education to raise and provide for his brothers and sisters. He traveled different states picking fields of cotton, pickles, strawberries and cucumbers, as well as working the Mess Hall at Texas A&M. In 1967, he married the love of his life Esther Moncivais. Together, they started a family and moved to Michigan, where Joe worked for General Motors.

Eventually settling back in Bryan, Joe strived to get the education that he was unable to have in his adolescence, driving to Madisonville every day after work to attend class. In 2000 at the age of 57, he earned his GED and was honored by having his essay chosen to be read at the graduation ceremony. With his work ethic, pride in appearance and being a true man of his word, Joe was well respected among family, friends and coworkers, and was able to retire from TEEX in 2008.

Although Joe held high standards for himself, he had no problem letting loose with a witty joke or remark, if it meant putting a smile on someone’s face. As a lifelong fan of the Texas A&M Aggies and the Dallas Cowboys, Joe enjoyed spending his time off watching their games. In their worst seasons he would often say, “I’m not watching them anymore,” but you could still catch him every Saturday and Sunday, in his fan gear ready to cheer them on again.

After all of his accomplishments, Joe truly believed that his greatest achievement in his life was the family he built.

Joe is preceded in death by his mother Appolonia Ybarra Macias, brother Lupe Ybarra, sister Stella Lopez, three brothers-in-law Louis, John, and Nick Moncivais, one sister-in-law Magdalena Carter, and his cherished baby boy James Vincent Bernal.

He is survived by his wife Esther, of 54 years; they would have celebrated their 55th anniversary on January 22nd of this year; his three children Michael Bernal, Andrea Bernal, Joseph Bernal and wife Monica. Grandchildren Justine Bernal, Michaela Bernal, James Reyes, Lauren Bernal, Lourdes Reyes, Jeremy Reyes, Leah Bernal, Devin Bernal, and Jeremiah Bernal. Also, his great grandchildren Alyzae, Aydan, Logan, and Scarlette Joe. Along with one brother Richard Macias, and eight sisters Adella Castilleja, Mary Gonzales, Lucy Moncivais, Marcie Montalbano, Laura Schultz, Paula Macias, Herminia Sarate, Becky Ocon, and one sister-in-law Bessie Moncivais.

Per the family’s request, please no hugging. Although handshakes are welcomed, please refrain from hugs or handshakes to Esther. Masks are required and the family also asks you practice social distancing.

“If you stay ready, you never have to get ready.” – Joe A. Bernal Jr.