MIDLAND, Texas — To the people who heard Midland City Councilman At-Large Dan Corrales speak in Midland City Council Chambers, he was their councilman.
However, to many more in the community, Councilman Corrales was considered a dear friend, who will be truly missed.
"He was such a kind man, compassionate, he made us feel like we were being heard," said Shelley Almuina, longtime Midland resident. "It’s heavy, he’s going to be missed."
Shocked and saddened is how Midland residents are reacting to the news of Councilman Dan Corrales' passing.
"When I heard the news, it was very difficult," Almuina said. "It just seems like we had just heard from him. I have such a heavy heart for the community. I’m hurting for his family, we send out our condolences to them."
For many residents, they also felt like he gave a voice to the voiceless.
"He made us feel like our voice was being heard he was very passionate about a lot of causes that the citizens could relate," said Almuina.
Councilman Corrales was also deeply involved in organizations and charities across the Tall City, including Bynum School and Rotary Club of Midland; where he served as president, Lions Club, Meals on Wheels and Midland Community Theatre.
Many have expressed words of gratitude and remembrance Tuesday.
Senior Life Midland said in a statement:
"Dan Corrales was a dear friend and faithful volunteer of Senior Life Midland. Dan's Friday routes delivering Meals On Wheels always brought a smile to those he served, and he will be deeply missed. Our sincere condolences, thoughts, and prayers are with his family."
Corrales had also recently taken a position with the Midland County District Attorney's Office as assistant district attorney.
Midland County District Attorney Laura Nodolf said in a statement:
"While his time with the office was short, Dan was a well-liked and dedicated member of the Midland County District Attorney's Office family, and his passing is a great loss. As with everything Dan did, he brought his sense of justice and love for Midland and its citizens to work with him every day. His smile and wit will be greatly missed."
The City of Odessa Mayor Javier Joven also released a statement online saying:
"Dan is a friend, a brother, and a confidant. I'll miss you, my friend. I love you, my brother. Be at peace."
The City of Midland council members also have offered their condolences and released statements. To read those people can click here.
The City of Midland has set up a memorial to honor Councilman Corrales. People can find it in Council Chambers inside Midland City Hall, on 300 N. Lorraine St. The City of Midland invites anyone to come by as the memorial will remain in place for the rest of the week. City Hall is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.