Albert Leonard Contreras

Albert Leonard Contreras, born June 10, 1961, in San Antonio, Texas, went to his final resting place on Friday, November 1, 2024. He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Sally Contreras.

Al is survived by a daughter, Larissa Kays, his sisters, Leticia Gonzales (Raymond), Loretta Stanton, and Maya Covarrubias, two nephews and 4 nieces, thirteen great nephews and nieces, and a great-great niece and nephew. He shared a special bond with his sisters, and the memories they created together will be treasured forever.

He was affectionately known as “Leonard” to close friends and family and as “Leno” by his beloved Tias and primos. Always an avid sports fan, Al cheered on his favorite teams, the Dallas Cowboys and the San Antonio Spurs, on game days. Those who knew Al would describe him as loving, funny, determined, and strong in his faith. One of his favorite quotes he often left us with was “Be blessed.” Al was thankful for each day and lived it optimistically. His true passions were cooking, gardening, and tending to his beloved fish. He also enjoyed trips to the beach.

From an early age, he had a passion for cooking wonderful meals. He learned the art of cooking from his father, a chef, and mother who instilled love as the main ingredient. He often worked alongside his father at catering events. Al took pride in his cooking, from meticulous preparation to artful presentation, and he frequently said, “Cooking should always be done with love.” He had an adventurous spirit in the kitchen, usually experimenting with recipes but also ensuring tradition was passed down through family recipes. He was our go-to person for help in the kitchen. Al was truly a culinary master, and his legacy will continue to live on through the love of his family. His care and patience for cooking didn’t stop there, as he also loved gardening and studied horticulture. He was the consummate “green thumb,” making anything grow.

His generosity never went unnoticed. Al was sure to send his sisters home from a visit with a care package of a freshly cooked meal or a plant he’d grown.

We celebrate a life of generosity, kindness, and love for his family.

While we mourn the loss of our beloved brother and uncle, we find solace and joy in being introduced to his daughter. Her presence is a beautiful reminder of his legacy and the love he left behind.

We’re also reminded of John 14:3: “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am” and comforted knowing we will meet again in Heaven one day.

ROSARYMONDAY, DECEMBER 16, 20249:30 A.M.ST. PAUL CATHOLIC CHURCH350 SUTTON DR., SAN ANTONIO, TX

MEMORIAL MASSMONDAY, DECEMBER 16, 202410:00 A.M.ST. PAUL CATHOLIC CHURCH350 SUTTON DR., SAN ANTONIO, TXOfficiant: Father Jesuraja "Raja" Alangaram

INTERMENTMONDAY, DECEMBER 16, 202412:00 P.M.SAN FERNANDO CEMETERY II746 CASTRVILLE RD., SAN ANTONIO, TXOfficiant: Pastor Flavio Cesar Martinez