Mariano Aguinaga of Castroville, Texas, entered eternal rest on October 22, 2025, at the age of 96. He was born in Natalia, Texas, on July 29, 1929, to Martin and Ruperta Mercado Aguinaga.
Mariano grew up in Devine and Natalia, where he developed a strong work ethic and deep appreciation for family and community. On April 12, 1953, he married the love of his life, Leocadia “Carrie” Raygosa, at St. Louis Catholic Church in Castroville. Their marriage of seventy-two years was blessed with three daughters, who were the pride and joy of his life.
His first career was ranching and farming, selling goods at local markets. Among his many crops, sugar cane became a family favorite. Later in life, he continued to grow sugar cane and even built his own molasses press, proudly making molasses to share with family and friends.
Mariano eventually became a commercial truck driver, proudly owning his own rig. An entrepreneur at heart, he later partnered with his brother-in-law, Joe Raygosa, to open Aguinaga and Raygosa Automotive, also known as A & R—a one-stop shop that included a gas station, bar, convenience store, and auto parts and repair business. Their success selling auto parts allowed them to travel extensively, creating memories across the globe.
Mariano is survived by his beloved wife, Leocadia “Carrie” Aguinaga; daughters, Monica Sanchez (Scott), Melinda Weiblen (Glenn), and Melissa Aguinaga, all of Castroville; grandchildren, David Sanchez (Jennifer), Sarah Sanchez, Jarrett Weiblen (Stephanie), and Jason Weiblen (Amber); and great-grandchildren, Aeriel Sandoval, Violet Sanchez, Selena Sanchez, Brennan Weiblen, Adele Weiblen, Liam Weiblen, Landon Weiblen, Jillian Weiblen, and Luke Weiblen. He is also lovingly remembered by numerous nieces, nephews, extended relatives, and in-laws.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Nieves Aguinaga, Ramon Aguinaga, and Lorenzo Aguinaga; as well as several nephews, sisters-in-law, and other cherished relatives who welcomed him into eternal rest.
Visitation will be held Thursday, November 6, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Tondre-Guinn Funeral Home, with the Holy Rosary recited at 5:30 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, November 7, 2025, at St. Louis Catholic Church. Entombment will follow at St. Louis Catholic Cemetery Garden Mausoleum in Castroville.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Mariano’s honor to St. Louis Catholic Church or School, or to a charity of your choice.
The family would like to thank the staff at Changing Seasons for their compassion and care during Mariano’s final moments.
He will be remembered for his entrepreneurial spirit, his devotion to family, and his generosity of heart. His door was always open to anyone in need, a reflection of his faith, kindness, and unwavering willingness to help others.
Arrangements by Tondre-Guinn Funeral Home. www.tondre-guinn.com
Mariano Aguinaga
