Rigoberto Cristia

Rigoberto Enrique Varela Cristia, 78, passed away in the early hours of December 24, 2018 at his home following a long and hard battle with cancer.
He leaves his wife of 43 years, Maria Teresa Varela, his daughters Lissette Hernandez, her spouse Mauricio Hernandez, Marlene Varela and her spouse Alexei Suarez, Magaly Varela, Aislinn Varela and his sons Eddy Varela, and Rigoberto Varela. He also leaves his grandchildren, great grandchildren, his siblings Lilia Varela and Eddy Varela, and his many extended relatives and close friends.
Born and raised in Camaguey, Cuba, the son to Enrique and Fidelina Varela, he left Cuba in his early 20's to pursue a better future in the United States. He continued his skills as a carpenter, which he obtained from his father, and continued his career up until last year before falling ill. He lived in Florida, Puerto Rico, Chicago, and may other places before finally settling his roots in Texas.
He enjoyed a good cup of Cuban coffee, his newspaper, and stayed active playing softball. He played his favorite game for over 30 years every weekend without an absence unless a rainout was called and ran a softball league to continue to be a part of his passion in his senior years. He enjoyed his grandchildren to the fullest and was a man that had so much wisdom, love, and happiness to give. He touched so many lives with his infectious laughter and kind heart and is remembered lovingly.
He was a simple man and even in his final wishes he desired to not make a fuss and not have a service. You may visit, send flowers, and/or cards to his home at 12306 Astoria Blvd Houston 77089.