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George S. De Leon entered into the Kingdom of Heaven on September 3, 2011 at the age of 76. George was a 1953 graduate of Sidney Lanier High School. He worked in the grocery business for most of his life, and became self-employed in 1971 until he retired in 2004. George and his wife, Ruth, were married for fifty three years. He was a Past Master of Prospect Hill Masonic Lodge #1247, member of the Scottish Rite, Tejas High Twelve, and the Alzafar Shrine Drum and Bugle Corps. George loved all music, but was fanatical about Italian opera. He discovered opera by listening to a short-wave radio at a very young age, and attended his first opera at the Municipal Auditorium at age eight. He had fond memories of attending open rehearsals there and listening to many great singers on his lunch break. George began his vocal studies with Professor Antonio Gutierrez, a graduate of the San Pietro a Majella Conservatory Enrico Caruso, was a prized student in Naples, Italy. He shared his strong tenor voice by singing in the San Fernando Cathedral Choir. In addition, he, along with friends, presented vocal recitals of operatic solos and ensembles. George loved sharing his musical talents by accompanying and coaching singers on the piano. In addition to his musical gifts, he also loved language and learning. In fact, he read scripture daily using three versions of the Bible to amplify his understanding and knowledge of the God's word. Most importantly, George loved people. He was also one of the founding members of the first LULAC Council in San Antonio. He had many friends, some lifelong and others very new, but always left those who knew him with some great thought and with a smile on their face. Many neighborhood children will attend the Alzafar Shrine Circus this week as a guest of George, as others have for many years. He was looking forward to playing in the circus band, as he did for over three decades. George loved much and is loved immensely. He touched the lives of many, and his children and grandchildren will always strive to make a practical and spiritual difference in the lives those who know them. George was a true altruist, and had a heart of gold.George and Ruth had three children, Dr. Annalisa de Leon Mendiola; Teresa Velasquez and her husband, Roger; George Jr. and his wife, Elizabeth; three grandchildren, Arianna Lopez and her husband, Bruno;GiannaDea Velasquez, and George De Leon III. They were blessed to have such a strong example, leader, thinker, and all around fun man in their lives. Memorial Service A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 10, 2011 at 3:30 p.m. at Mission Park South in the Main Chapel located at 1700 S.E. Military Dr. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Meaningful Living Ministry, 206 Gettysburg, San Antonio, TX 78228.

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George S. De Leon

April 18, 1935 - September 3, 2011