Israel Jr. Cisneros

December 13, 2024

Israel Jr. Cisneros was a loving, compassionate, and selfless man whose heart knew no bounds.

He was an empathic soul who put the needs of others before his own, no matter how little he had for himself. A dedicated father, Israel's world revolved around his children. From the moment his first son, Isaiah Mathew Cisneros, took his first breath, Israel embraced fatherhood with open arms and tears of joy. He immediately set out to share the wonders of the world with him,describing the sky, trees, and all the beauty of life. This love for his children remained unwavering.

Despite financial challenges, Israel found creative ways to build meaningful memories with his kids. With only a portable DVD player and two movies—Finding Nemo and Elf—he sat with his children, watching them over and over as if it were the first time. His patience, love, and creativity as a father were endless. Israel believed in providing his children with enriching experiences, ensuring they listened to classical music and watched educational cartoons. 

No matter the hardship, his love never wavered.Israel worked as a roofer for 15 years, often alongside his father, with whom he shared a deep bond. Injury eventually forced him to leave the trade, which was a devastating blow to him. It wasn't just work—it was a shared purpose with his father. While life's struggles tested him, Israel remained resilient. He faced many personal battles, often speaking of life's challenges and searching for a sense of belonging. Despite being naturally shy and introverted, those who knew him well knew his humor could light up a room. He had the rare ability to make people laugh even in tough times.

A family man at heart, Israel loved nothing more than being home with his loved ones. He took pride in calling himself the "grill king," with Nereida as his "side queen," completing his meals with homemade potato salad, rice, and other family favorites. Cooking was his love language. He found joy in feeding those he loved, filling not just stomachs but hearts with his culinary care.

The outdoors was another of Israel's happy places. He never cared about being perfect—he wanted to feel complete and happy. While his journey was not always easy, he never gave up on himself or his family. He faced addiction head-on, completing treatment at Sundown M Ranch.

This marked a turning point for him. Filled with hope, Israel enrolled at Heritage University, completing his first semester. One of his proudest moments came on Sunday, December 8, 2024, when he accepted Jesus into his heart as his Savior. Overjoyed with his spiritual rebirth, he found a church where he felt at home and eagerly looked forward to joining a men's group. "I can't wait to read the Bible the right way," he shared, full of renewed purpose and faith.

Israel held a profound admiration for his father, Israel Sr. He often found strength in his father's words, "¿Quién tiene mi nombre? Te dejo en mi lugar." (Who has my name? I leave you in my place.) These words reminded him of the legacy and love his father had passed down to him.

These words brought him comfort in difficult times, and now, father and son are reunited in Heaven. His journey was not without its struggles. Israel faced mental health challenges, physical pain from his injuries, and moments of isolation. Despite his efforts to reach out, he often felt like a burden to those he loved. His heart was heavy with unspoken pain, but his strength was immeasurable. For those grieving his loss, his story is a call to check in on loved ones who self- isolate. Israel wanted his story to be shared in hopes that it might save someone else.

Survivors

Israel leaves behind a family that loved him deeply. He is survived by his mother, Maria Cisneros; his two sisters and one brother; his children Isaiah, Isaac, Nadia, and Alejandro; and his life partner, Nereida Romero. He is now at peace, resting in Heaven and sharing conversations with his father.

A Tribute from Nereida Romero

"The love of my life, you will always have my heart. Our love needed no title. It never mattered where I was in life—you dropped everything for me. I feel privileged to have known the man behind the world's eyes. You had a heart of gold and showed me the true meaning of unconditional love. We talked about this often, and God knew you were tired. Thank you for holding on as long as you did.

'El perseverante' — the persevering one.

'Desde arriba me miras' — from above, you watch me.

I loved you with all your imperfections, just as you did for me. Despite our flaws, one thing is certain—we loved each other perfectly. I am at peace knowing I was there with you, but my heart does not know how to stop loving you. I will miss you forever. Remember, you promised that one day we would get it right. Until we meet again, my love."

A Tribute from Alejandro Xavier Cisneros (Age 10)

"The world needs to know that my dad always knew how to pick me up when I was down. When I was happy, only he knew how to make me happier. I love you, Dad. I know you did not leave. I know you're still here with me.”