Dierro Emiterio Muniz

Dierro Emiterio Muniz, 55, beloved son, brother, uncle and friend, died Sept. 9, 2012, in Weatherford, Texas, with his loving sister by his side.The viewing for Dierro 2-6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 13, at Baum-Carlock-Bumgardner Funeral Home in Mineral Wells. The Rosary will follow at 6 p.m. Funeral Mass is 10 a.m. Friday, Sept. 14, at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Mineral Wells.Dierro was born in San Antonio, Texas, on Jan. 31, 1957, to Emmitt and Anita Muniz. Dierro graduated valedictorian from Mineral Wells High School, Class of 1975. He continued his studies at The University of Texas in Austin, where he excelled as an honors student. Dierro received many awards and scholarships. He graduated in 1980 with a degree in civil engineering. Dierro was a great example to his family as he was the first to graduate from college. After he graduated, Dierro spent time working in Oklahoma, Texas and Massachusetts. He is credited with a number of design projects in the Metroplex, Houston and Boston. He eventually settled in Hollywood, Calif., and loved living there. Dierro returned to Mineral Wells in 2005 to take care of his mother.Dierro was one of the first members of ACT UP, The AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power, in 1987. This was a very important association for Dierro. They worked to raise awareness for people suffering with HIV/AIDS. He participated in numerous clinical trials for new medications and treatments that would help to extend the life span of people living with AIDS. This was his most important work. His early dedication to finding a cure has helped extend the lives of so many people. Dierro was a tremendous activist in the community and was actively involved with fundraisers such as AIDS Rides, AIDS Walks, and Black and White parties. He advocated for friends infected with HIV/AIDS, helping them to understand the disease and manage it.Dierro had a passion for higher learning and was always encouraging friends and family to learn more. He loved to help others learn the English and Spanish languages. He was a faithful member at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church and volunteered with the clergy. Dierro loved to travel, and had opportunities to travel the world. Spain was his favorite destination.Dierro is survived by his sister, Erma Muniz; partner, Michael Goren, of Winthrop, Mass.; niece, Penny Perez-James and husband, Josh James, of Las Vegas; nephew, Donny Perez and partner, Melissa Waugh, of Mineral Wells; great-nephew, Gage Waugh-Perez; cousin, Patricia and husband, Laurencio Almaraz, of Millsap; and lifelong friend, Gilbert Perez, of Arlington.