If you’re about to sit out on the porch with a cold drink, listening to some music, and a song by Mazz starts to play, stop! Reflect: Manuel M. Tristan Jr. (you probably knew him as “Egghead”), who entered eternal life on Wednesday, July 14, 2021. He was born to Manuel and Mary (Mosqueda) Tristan on December 10, 1964. His spirit is carried on by his father, two brothers, three sisters, four children, extended family of relations, and many friends from every walk of life.
Some of you may be wondering how in the world did he ever receive such a nickname? Well, it just so happened that when he was about 7 or 8 years old, he was outside playing with a friend when our older brother called out to him, “Egghead”. Of course, his friend overheard and couldn’t stop laughing. The friend asked, “why this name?” and Jr. replied, “because he says my head is shaped like an egg”. Rolling with laughter (not being able to sleep that night), I’m sure his friend was probably the first one at school the next day, ready, and willing to share this new information about his friend. They were friends until the day Egghead passed away.
Sibling jealousy did not pass over Jr. One day long ago, he came out of his room-with the aroma of homemade tortillas filling the house-he would say “Oh, I guess Alan’s coming over”. “What makes you ask that?” Jr. replied, “Because Mom’s making tortillas.” It took him a bit to realize that she was making them for all of us. Oh titty-baby. He did eventually get over the tiny jealousy because it was this brother who made sure that Jr. did not need or want for anything. Going back and forth, clear across town just to get whatever he asked for.
Jr. was always ready for get togethers where he knew he would get to see family and friends! He always offered a plate or something to drink to someone who just happened to walk or drive by.
Jr. never met a stranger and always wore a smile. We are blessed to have known and learn many of his good deeds during his 56 years of life as he was always there to help someone in need. He took the saying of “giving the shirt off your back” literally. For instance, when he ran into one of his friends who was going downtown for a meeting, Jr. happened to notice that his shirt was dirty; so, what does he do? He takes his shirt off and gives it to him. He would also do that for another friend who was short until payday and needed to feed his family. In steps Jr…off he goes to buy a family chicken dinner to make sure they didn’t go hungry. He was there for a friend who needed help with a benefit, standing in the hot sun with a sign so she could raise funds for her godson who just passed away; and all the while, his friend not knowing how ill he was.
Jr. was loyal and generous almost to a fault and he never once, in his entire life, ever claimed to be perfect. He would enjoy hearing the word of God sometimes at St. Patrick’s Catholic church or when our brother would invite him to service at Lakewood. He would come home so filled with the holy spirit that he wanted to share with anyone who would cross his path.
Anytime you saw him, he was most likely wearing one his favorite Houston sports team jersey or t-shirt. Whether it be the Astros, Texans, or Rockets, he made sure to represent for his city while always asking who was winning.
You could see the shine in his eyes when he strapped on his steel toed boots and grab his safety vest to go stand in the Houston heat, cold, rain or shine, while he worked for the City of Houston.
He was always his happiest when hanging out with family and friends-showing his pearly whites-smiling from ear to ear. So happy, just like when he was younger, he would drive around Northside blasting his music for all to hear. Most of all, he was proud to be part of the Mosqueda and Tristan family.
In his lifetime, Jr. was always looking out for the other person, making sure that no one went hungry; had enough to pay their bills; always trying to be there for someone, just to hear them out or ready to lend a helping hand. Wearing a smile, shouting hello to them from afar; crying just because he knew that we loved him no matter what. He was a son, brother, father, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend that we will surely miss.
Jr. is survived by: his Dad Manuel Sr., Brothers; Alan (Alma), and Adam. Sisters; Sandra, Lisa (Ruben), and Monica (Rene). His children whom he loved unconditionally: Ashley, Manuel III, Joshua and Samantha, numerous nieces and nephews, extended family, and a vast number of friends.
He is preceded in death by his mom, Mary M. Tristan; Maternal Grandmother, Amada C. Mosqueda; and Paternal Grandparents, Joaquin and Celia Tristan
We are praying that Jr. will be reunited with our Mom and loved ones because I can just see and hear him approaching the Pearly Gates of Heaven with Mom standing next to St. Peter with her fists on her hips telling Jr., “Okay Jr. stay in or out, hurry up and close the door!” Stay in Brother and help Mom for our arrival and we will all celebrate with you, until then.
Pallbearers
Ruben Ramirez, Jr.
Freddy Valencia Jr.
Christopher Ramirez
Rene Ramirez, Jr.
Steven Ramirez
Adam D. Tristan
Rene Martinez
Honorary Pallbearers
Alan Tristan
Adam Tristan
Ruben Ramirez, Sr.
Rene Ramirez, Sr.
Michael Diaz
Ruben Luna
Matthew Mosqueda
Randy Navarrette
Ray Rosales
Ray Tijerina
Barbara Villarreal
So back to the porch with your cold drink in hand, that song by Mazz beginning to play, turn up the volume and send a “grito” out to Jr. Let him know that you are thinking of him for just a brief moment. Hopefully, he will send you a sign letting you know that he is watching over you.
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