Ramon Alvarez Leal

Ramon Alvarez Leal was born on September 24, 1943, in San Antonio, TX, and is joining his faithful wife of 30 years, Barbara Leal, in heaven.

He is a Vietnam Vet who proudly served our country in the Air Force. He worked for the city of San Antonio Housing Development Agency as a relocation Supervisor. He was in charge of planning many projects such as the Alamodome. He helped many families relocate and get the most for their property. He was full of so much wisdom and was not shy to share.

I clearly remember the first time Ray referred to his Grandkids as the "Gifts". He said "where are the Gifts"? I thought this guy was taking his name too literal. He wants me to bring him gifts! He assured me the gifts are the grandkids because they are true gifts from G-d. Gpa Ray was one of the funniest and wisest men you would ever meet. He appreciated fancy cuisines like Chateaubriand, but was just as happy getting dollar tacos from DQ. He could spot a good deal a mile away. Ray Ray, as Gma Barbie called him, could make use of practically anything.

The Man had vision, I once approached him saying can we throw away this old antique? Without hesitation, he told me how this old sewing machine could be a desk or maybe even a vanity. He had a talent for turning chores into games. He would say, let's see who can finish first and our competitive spirit would fall for it every time.

Gpa had a big love for nature, winning yard of the month countless times. He could see the beauty in each rock and every tree, even the ones people call trash trees, Ray was able to see their value. His way was the way of being calm, never letting emotions control his actions. This is the main thing he left us, which was to think before we speak. In James 1:19 it says, "So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath." This verse is spot-on with Ray's philosophy. One time he diffused a fight by just talking calmly.

His relaxed nature came from the art of Judo which he learned while stationed in Japan. He left us with the family motto, Siempre Leal, Always be Loyal. We will carry these two words with us in our hearts for generations to come. Oskar Uno, Dos, and Tres his beloved Schnauzers were his dogs of choice, loyal and smart pets. Before the Dog Whisperer was out, Ray had his schnauzer listening to every beckoning call, whether it was spinning in circles for snacks or getting the morning paper, his dogs were the best in show. His favorite song was Dream Lover by Bobby Darin. A great man who would give you the shirt off his back. A G-d fearing Man who loved the Lord and his family. We love him so much and are in disbelief he is no longer with us.

We will always remember his dapper style and love for tennis. Winning senior nationals in the 90's was no surprise. In one match he had developed his topspin forehand so much that his opponent, flabbergasted, shouted "What is he doing to that ball," Another person from the audience yelled, "he is putting some kind of spin on it." He made everybody laugh while on this Earth and we are sure he has everybody smiling up above.

Our Gpa Ray leaves behind daughters Rhonda Myshele Gonzalez and spouse Anthoney Gonzalez. RiAnne Yvette Acosta and spouse Richard Acosta.

Grandchildren "His Gifts" Neyna Mia Gonzalez, Maximo Gonzalez, Ariana Gabí Acosta, and Enzo Roman Acosta.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.sunsetfuneralhomesa.com for the Leal family.