
Dickie, also known as “Duck” to some, was born February 5, 1954 in Elgin and moved to Waco along with his mother, when he was a baby. He was raised by his uncle and aunt, Marcelino & Esther Flores. From his uncle he gained a love for trains, sports, and the New York Yankees and as a young teen he grew a passion for music, especially a passion for playing the guitar. He was an amazing husband, father, uncle, brother, friend, and by far, the best guitar player in our eyes. He loved the Lord with all his heart and anyone who came in contact with him, knew his passion for the Lord and that he wouldn’t compromise the Word but didn’t turn his back on anyone.
He was preceded in death by his uncle and aunt, Marcelino and Esther Flores; father and step-mother, Maximiliano (Masi) and Cecilia Villanueva Sr.; step-father, Paul Carrizales; and brother, David Villanueva.
He is survived by his wife, Lisa Villanueva; daughter, Melanie Villanueva; son, Danny Villanueva; granddog, Boots Villanueva; mother, Beatrice Carrizales; sisters, J. Irene Perez of Temple, Ramona Moreno and husband, Manuel of Taylor, and Cecilia Click of Cedar Park; brother, Maximiliano (Max) Villanueva Jr.; and many nieces and nephews. He will be missed by so many relatives and friends. https://www.lakeshorefuneralhome.com/leonicio-dickie-villanueva/
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Gerald Stewart
Dickie and I had been able to see each other numerous times over the years and I always enjoyed those visits very much. Recently, Dickie had met with me at my office about 2 weeks before he contracted the covid virus. We had breakfast together with Bob Crook and James Nix a week or so before that. It was a fun time of reliving old memories. He was to get back with me in a week or so to pick up some items we had visited about. When he contacted me, it was from his bed in the hospital expressing the optimism that his doctor said he might get to go home that Monday. By Sunday, that ugly virus had put him on a ventilator. For the next 3 weeks it was a roller coaster ride of hope and concern. Bob Crook, Phyliss (White) Shows and I stayed in contact via text keeping up with his progress and struggles. That experience made it harder when we heard of his passing. Dickie was a good person and my life was better for his friendship. I will miss him.
Charlie Johnson
Grew up with Dickie. You will be missed. Prayers to Lisa and the kids.
Bobby Strickland ((Prior Classmate)
Back when I was a kid, I transferred from Bells Hill Elementary to North Waco Elementary. I met a host of new kids and met this small frame kid and his name was Dickie. He was a bright intelligent kid and always friendly to everyone including a knucklehead like me. I remember once at recess we were all playing kick ball and he was one of the kids picking teams. I really didn't know anyone, but right off he chose me on the team. From the second grade until moving on to Waco High, he was always a good friend and always cordial to me. We ran in different circles as I was prone to goofing up and he was more prone to doing the right things. I always respected him and after years of not knowing where anyone was or who was still alive. Dickie found me on Facebook and reached out. That was Dickie! I wanted to attend a church gathering sometime in Granger, Texas or ride cycles. But that will never happen now, but I know we shall cross paths again when the Father calls us to be together once again. Rest easy my friend and we'll keep your family in our most heartfelt prayers.
Big Character
Rick Ashley
I remember Dickie as a great guy in high school. I was glad to re- connect with him via Facebook; we shared a number of laughs on funny memes, loved his faith and his unashamed love for the Lord. He will be missed.