Leonardo Alviar Soberano Sr.

Leonardo “Leo” A. Soberano Sr., affectionately known to his family as “Totoy,” and to some as “Sarge,” passed away peacefully on October 25, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nevada, surrounded by loved ones. During his final moments, two of his children were at his bedside, holding his hand as he took his last breaths. He was 71 years old.

Born in Sampaloc, Manila, on July 1, 1954, Leo was the youngest of five siblings, the beloved son of Quintin Sr. and Esperanza Soberano. From the very beginning, his kindness, humor, and generous heart left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him.

As a young man, Leo moved to the United States and proudly served in the U.S. Army, where he was stationed in Germany, Kansas, and New Jersey. He carried the values of discipline, service, and integrity with him for the rest of his life. During his time in Germany, Leo quietly became a source of hope and support for many undocumented Filipinos who were struggling to find stability in a foreign country. He offered them guidance, transportation, food, and even opened his home as temporary housing until they could get on their feet. Many of those families went on to build new lives because of his compassion and generosity — though he never sought recognition for it.

After his military years, he began a long and meaningful career with the United States Postal Service in Las Vegas, where he worked as a Mail Carrier for over 20 years before retiring. His dedication, reliability, and work ethic earned him the respect and admiration of both his colleagues and his community.

In 1990, Leo rekindled a connection with his childhood acquaintance Alicia “Mama Alice” M. Soberano, beginning a love story that would define the rest of his life. From handwritten letters and long-distance phone calls to the day he picked her up at the airport in a brand-new Toyota Corolla and drove straight to the courthouse to marry her, their story was filled with intention, laughter, and deep devotion. Together, they built a beautiful life centered on love, prayer, forgiveness, and countless adventures across Europe, Asia, and the Holy Land.

Devout Catholics and longtime members of Prince of Peace Church in Las Vegas, Leo and Mama Alice’s faith only grew stronger as the years went on. After receiving a kidney transplant, Leo found renewed gratitude and faith in God’s mercy. Years later, when faced with a major spinal surgery, he chose faith over fear once again — placing his trust entirely in God. These experiences of both healing and surrender inspired the couple to dedicate their lives to a shared spiritual mission: to visit all sixteen Vatican-approved Marian apparition sites around the world. They pursued this journey with devotion and reverence, completing thirteen together before his passing.

He viewed every year after his transplant as a blessing and an opportunity to live with purpose, faith, and love.

Leo’s love for his family was the heartbeat of his life. He taught his children the importance of education, independence, and saving wisely — yet later reminded them that life is short and meant to be lived fully. “You can always make money,” he would say, “but you never know what tomorrow may bring.” To each of his children, he’d often add with a grin, “You’re my favorite.” He said it to every one of them, and they all believed him — because his love truly was that vast. He raised his family with authenticity, humor, and a deep sense of unconditional love, teaching them that there is no jealousy in a love that celebrates everyone’s worth.

Generosity came naturally to Leo. He quietly helped family, friends, and even strangers in need — sending balikbayan boxes home to the Philippines, supporting relatives through school, and offering help wherever it was needed. To his nieces and nephews, he was more than an uncle; he was “Daddy Totoy,” a second father whose warmth and laughter filled every room.

Leo shared an especially close bond with his siblings. With his late brother Junior, he had a loving, supportive relationship — the two balanced each other perfectly, with Junior’s happy-go-lucky spirit complemented by Leo’s steady presence and protective nature. He loved to boss around his sister Caring, but was gently reminded by his eldest sister Libby that he was the youngest — a dynamic that often filled their conversations with laughter. That playful teasing perfectly captured the closeness and affection they all shared as siblings. In his later years, Leo and Mama Alice often spent time with Uncle Alex and Auntie Glo — running errands, shopping at the BX and commissary, or simply enjoying each other’s company. Those small, ordinary moments became some of his happiest memories.

Leo was led by conviction and principle. Once he believed in something, he stood firm — rarely swayed and sometimes proudly bullheaded, often insisting that he was “always right.” His stubbornness, though sometimes challenging, was rooted in love and a fierce desire to protect and guide his family. It was part of what made him such a steady presence — strong, certain, and dependable in every season of life.

He was the life of every gathering — witty, sharp, and effortlessly funny. He cherished Thanksgiving dinners, especially turkey and honey-baked ham, and never failed to make everyone laugh with his quick one-liners and gentle teasing.

Leo also loved playing poker, a passion that spanned nearly two decades with his close-knit Vegas poker group. The game was more than cards to him — it was friendship, laughter, and strategy all rolled into one. He was known to go “all in” without even looking at his hand — and somehow still win. Around the poker table, his humor, boldness, and confidence always shone through.

He had a favorite saying that perfectly captured his outlook on life: “Pwede pa yan!” (“That can still be used.”) He’d say it with a grin and a twinkle in his eye, a reflection of his resourceful spirit and his belief that there’s always something worth saving — in life, in people, and in love.

He also loved visiting Blueberry Hill Family Restaurant, where he enjoyed hearty meals and warm conversations — one of the simple pleasures that reflected his down-to-earth joy in life.

Leo was thrifty with himself but endlessly generous to others. He found genuine joy in making people feel happy, seen, and loved — always looking out for those who had less, always standing up for the underdogs. Beneath his laughter and practicality was a heart full of faith, empathy, and grace.

Leo is survived by his devoted wife Alicia M. Soberano; children Gemma Soberano, Bernard Carpio (Sara), EmmaRuth Micks (Ernie), and Leonardo M. Soberano Jr. (Chad Collins); siblings Celerina Orque (Venerio), Claridad Soberano (Rodolfo), and Alejandro Soberano (Gloria); and his beloved grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Quintin Soberano Jr. (Veneracion), and grandson Julian Marcial.

Funeral Mass Tuesday, November 4, 2025 12:00 PM Prince of Peace Catholic Church 5485 E Charleston Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89142

Viewing: Tuesday, November 4, 2025 • 1:30 – 5:00 PM, 7600 S. Eastern Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89123

Military Honors: 4:00 PM, 7600 S. Eastern Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89123

Catered Food & Fellowship: 5:00 – 7:00 PM, 7600 S. Eastern Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89123

Leo “Totoy” Soberano will be laid to rest at Loyola Memorial Park in Marikina, Metro Manila, the place where his heart always remained.

The Soberano family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the love, support, and prayers shared during this time. His laughter, wisdom, and kindness will live on forever in the hearts of all who loved him.