Manuel Leon Sr

An enriching life lived, destiny pursued and no doubt to his legacy; In the 90 years from Georgetown, TX to Toppenish, WA, and many places in between, the life of Manuel León was lived and left its mark on the many people whom he encountered. His encounters were many, first as a boy in Texas growing up in the depression in an age and place where a horse was still a major source of transportation. A fiery young man with responsibilities of taking care of parents and sisters, working cotton fields and providing wherever he could. Migrating to various states to eventually settling his parents in Toppenish. Drafted, as America was winning WWII, he served in the Army Air Corps as a member of the greatest generation. Finally coming home to Toppenish, living out his next 70 years. He met Alvina, his wife of 50 years and together loved, raised and educated 9 children, dedicated to making their lives better in this world and for the next. The Catholic Church had no stronger servant in attending mass, donation of time and money, and bridging the cultures of St Aloysius parish. It was always one project to the next even when slowed down by a stroke and heart issues. His relationships with friends and especially his family are well remembered and shared. When someone like Manuel León enters into your life his character is not easily forgotten. In the circle of life that he belonged in, he made a great difference in the lives that he touched. Without a doubt he was just a lover of life and he never saw a reason to hold that in. Over all the years, it just seemed that there was always a constant stream of visitors at the house or he would run into old friends around town or make new ones with his outgoing charm. Along with Alvina, It was their gift to be welcoming to others. His seasonal trucking business sustained the family for many years hauling peas, potatoes, corn, lima beans, hay, sugar beets and watermelon. It also kept his older boys busy teaching them skills they still carry today. His later years brought him to pursue educational opportunities in the beginnings of Headstart Program and to be part of the group which shaped the Migrant Clinic, Valley Migrant Council and Northwest Rural Opportunities. He learned to play golf hitting it short but straight. When he could no longer play he took up drinking Pepsi at every meal which was very often. Into his retirement years he converted an old meat locker building turning it into a restaurant, El Rincon, with his oldest son, which successfully operated for almost 30 years. Manuel’s family is large, Sons, Manuel (Emma), Carlos (Peggy), Jose (Mary), Patricio, Eduardo (Jill), Esteban; Daughters, Monica and Marta. Preceded in death Jose and Virginia Leon, Alvina Leon and Rodolfo Leon. Lots of grandkids and also one and half great-grandkids. Special thank you to Monica for your skill and love in dads last days. A special thanks for Frs. Bill and John Shaw for friendship and ministering to him with the gospel and sacraments. We his family are saddened with his passing and missing his love, but we gather to celebrate a man who transformed this world; as a son, father, grandfather, great grandfather, a friend. Our dad created a world that we were all happy to be a part of and his reward for this lifetime will be in heaven. A role model to many, a true compadre and man of faith. Visitation will be at 5PM Sunday June 25, 2017 at St. Aloysius Catholic Church with recitation of the rosary at 6PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be on Monday at the church at 10AM with interment with military honors following at the Zillah City Cemetery. Friends can send condolences at www.toppenishfunerals.com. Heggie's Colonial Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Manuel Leon Sr

April 26, 1927 - June 21, 2017

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Manuel Leon Sr

April 26, 1927 - June 21, 2017

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