Lino Leal Garcia, a beloved husband, father, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on July 22, 2024 at the age of 78. Born on August 29, 1945, Lino was a man of great character and strength, known for his unwavering love for the outdoors, his beloved Dallas Cowboys, and his dedicated service to his country.
Lino proudly served in the U.S. Army where he demonstrated remarkable bravery and commitment during the Vietnam War. He was a recipient of the Army Commendation Medal with Valor Device, Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Cluster, Air Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal, good conduct medal, the coveted Combat Infantryman Badge, the Army’s basic Parachutists Badge, and several other commendations. His time in the service was a testament to his patriotism and his deep sense of duty. After two tours, Lino continued to embody the spirit of service by being employed for 34 years with the U.S. Postal Service.
Lino's love for the outdoors and faithfully watching his beloved Dallas Cowboys were defining aspects of his life. Whether traveling, gambling, fishing, or simply enjoying the beauty of his lawn and plants, he found great joy and peace in staying active. His passion for the outdoors was something he eagerly shared with his family and friends in creating countless cherished memories.
He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Margarita Garcia, and their two children: Virginia (Apolonio Jr.) Esquivel and Rolando Garcia; four grandchildren: Apolonio and Araceli Esquivel, and Leonardo and Cassandra Garcia; his brothers: Luis Garcia and Ernesto Garcia of Brownsville; his sisters: Celia Garcia of California, Sofia Canul and Hortencia Garcia of Brownsville as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Lino is preceded in death by his parents, Nolasco and Olivia Garcia and siblings: Elvira Rivera, Pedro Garcia, Ramon Garcia, Daniel Garcia, and Aurora Covarrubias.
Pallbearers are Apolonio Esquivel III, Leonardo Garcia, John Micheal Saenz, Raul Garcia, Hector Garcia and Gregg Saenz.
Lino's legacy of love, service, and adventure will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
A visitation for Lino will be held Monday, July 29, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Funeraria Del Angel Cheyenne, 549 Cheyenne St., Corpus Christi, TX 78405. A recitation of the holy rosary will occur Monday, July 29, 2024 from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM, 549 Cheyenne St., Corpus Christi, TX 78405. A funeral service will occur Tuesday, July 30, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, 549 Cheyenne St., Corpus Christi, TX 78405. A burial will occur Tuesday, July 30, 2024 from 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM at Memory Gardens Cemetery, 8200 Old Brownsville Road, Corpus Christi, TX 78415.
