In Loving Memory: Leonard Paul Duarte
January 1st, 1960- July 25th, 2025
Dear Family & Friends, On July the 25th 2025, our brother Leonard was called home to Heaven, after a brief illness, he was 65 years old. Throughout his journey in life, Leonard accomplished many things. but he was always there for people that looked up to him whenever they needed him. in high school he participated in wrestling, his freshman and sophomore years, before deciding in the 11th grade, that he wanted a career in the Military with the U.S. Army. after completing basic training at Fort Sill Oklahoma, and during his years of Military service, Leonard was also stationed at Schofield Barracks Hawaii, home of the 25th Infantry Division. Fort Lewis in Tacoma Washington, and, for a few years at Fort Ord, in Monterey County California in the early 1990’s, until the former Army post was decommissioned in 1994. After years of intense training in the Artillery Division, Leonard became a highly skilled Howitzer Operator. This incredibly destructive piece of Military equipment is designed for both high and low angle fire, and is primarily used to support troops, on the ground in every combat operation. and after a decorated 20-year career with the Army, he was promoted to the rank of Staff Sergeant. a distinguished career achievement for an immensely proud Military man. Leonard’s dedication to his country continued, for another 10 years with the Army National Guard, to accumulate 30 years of Military Service. in his spare time and throughout his life, he enjoyed listening to his favorite singer Barry White, and was a huge fan of Boxing which was always, exciting for him to watch even in retirement. his favorite athletes were Muhammad Ali, Roberto Duran, and Oscar Delahoya. All these talented athletes are in the Boxing Hall of Fame. not to mention of course, his love and gratitude to God, for giving him the life he always wanted. Sunday mornings he felt the most comfort, with a cup of coffee and listening, to his favorite Pastor on TV Joel Osteen. Leonard lived his life through God, the best way that he could, but his lifetime commitment to success and happiness, could not have been more complete or more fulfilling, without the love and support, that he shared with his family. He admired all his relatives, brothers, and sisters. especially his grandma Jessie Duarte whom he adored, his Auntie Lila, his Auntie Hellen and many relatives that were dear to his heart. Leonard is survived by his loving wife Debra, his brothers Willie Jr. (Kay ) Rick Geyen ( Jill ) Ross Duarte. Sister Lilly Duarte. Liness Coronado, nieces Darlene Mattern (Steve) Holly Bray (Derek) Abrianna Coronado, Faith Duarte, and Sierra Garcia. nephews Joshua Duarte, Sam Duarte, Blake Duarte, and Vincent Garcia. and great nieces, Kassie, Ali, & Sophie Mattern. Thank You my brother Leonard, for all that you did, for all that you gave, and most of all, Thank You my dear brother for everything!
For God so loved the World, that he gave his only Begotten Son. that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have everlasting life.
John 3:16