CUERO — Candelario Patrick Alaniz, III—known affectionately as Candy Jr., CandyMan, Nuno, Junior, Big Chops, and, most lovingly, Captain—entered this world on January 22, 1973, into the arms of his devoted parents, Candelario and Viola Alaniz, who survive him. On September 1, 2026, he departed this life quietly and peacefully, with both of them by his side.

He is also survived by his children, Erica Cuellar (Caleb), Gabriella Alaniz (Florentino Amador, IV), Moses Alaniz (Tyanna), Destiny Alaniz, and Illyanna Alaniz (Hunter Mullins); his grandchildren, Scarlett, Caleb Jr., Mason, and Michael Cuellar; Everleigh, Emelia, and Florentino Amador, V; Adonis Taylor; and Vespera Alaniz; his brother, Frank Herrera of Yoakum; and his sister, Susie Alaniz Gomez (Matthew) of Cuero.

Candy’s greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was being a father and grandfather. His children and grandchildren brought him immeasurable happiness, and he proudly expressed that love every day.

Candy lived through hardships that could have dimmed a lesser spirit, yet he continued to find reasons to smile. He loved his family fiercely, enjoyed being around people, celebrated birthdays as if they were grand occasions, and never missed a chance to talk football or enjoy a visit with loved ones. And if you ever received a phone call from him at an inconvenient hour, you simply learned that Captain kept his own schedule.

In his younger years, Candy loved firing up the barbecue pit and feeding friends and family during his time at Cuero High School, Blinn College, and later Southwest Texas State University. He had a gift for bringing people together—through laughter, conversation, and good times. After many years living in Austin, he became an enthusiastic and loyal fan of the University of Texas Longhorns. Hook’em.

In his final days, Candy was blessed to live with his loving parents. He enjoyed visits from his sister, niece Sadie Gomez, and nephew Ace Andrew Gomez. Their time together was filled with the things he loved most—family outings, meals at favorite restaurants, shopping trips, shared laughter, and planning gatherings that brought everyone together.

Candy was a proud and spiritual man. He had a special way of making people feel loved. When saying goodbye, he often offered his grandchildren his signature handshake, followed by the sign of the cross. Whether during a conversation or as you walked away, Candy made sure you knew one thing: He loved you. The truest way to honor him is not only to remember the sadness of his passing, but to celebrate the joy of having him here.

Special Thanks

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Jennifer Sigsbee Gonzales of Cuero Regional Hospital, whose meticulous care and compassion throughout Candy’s medical journey became a blessing and a friendship.

Special thanks are also extended to Davita Cuero Lakeview Dialysis, and to David Varela, Bubba Gardner, and Lynn of Victoria Transit. What began as weekly appointments with strangers grew into meaningful friendships that Candy and his family deeply cherished. Their kindness and care will always be remembered.

All who knew and loved him are welcome to attend a memorial service and the graveside committal.  Guests may go directly to the graveside following the memorial service.

Memorial Service

A memorial service celebrating Candy’s life will be held on:

Saturday, September 26, 2026 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM Jerusalem Baptist Church Cuero, Texas

A graveside service will follow at:

2:00 PM Hillside Cemetery Cuero, Texas Officiated by Pete Guajardo, Jr.

A reception will follow from:

3:00 PM – 6:00 PM American Legion Hall Cuero, Texas