Leonardo Rene Marquez

From the beginning of his life, his family new he was special and talented. Leon met the man he called dad when he was 3 years old who started him on the path of martial arts. Leon began training in Tae-Kwon-Do when he was 8 years old and continuing for the next 10 years earning the name " The Karate Kid “along with numerous medals, trophies, awards and belts. When Leon started High School, he found a love for the drums. He excelled in every percussion instrument with an emphasis in the quads. He earned many awards in high school including, UIL and a state championship. Leon graduated from Pecos High School in 1992, with a letter in football, marching band and the accomplishment of rewriting the percussion music of the school song. Leon left home and Pecos at the ripe age of 19 to pursue his dreams of music. To say that he was a skilled and talented drummer and musician is an understatement. He performed in several Tejano Bands throughout his 20's. Leon's love for all Genres of music was a blessing he shared to all who knew him. Leon eventually followed his dad's footsteps and entered the Oil Field Life where he continued until the Lord called him. At one point Leon took time to begin truck driving, gaining his CDL and a Truck. He loved that short stint in trucking. He saw all 48 states with the best view of his cab. Leon was a lover of pizza, BBQing and Football. He was a longtime Dallas Cowboys fan. The last two years, Leon moved to Corpus Christi to be closer to his family and help his parents. Leon was selfless and definitely one of a kind. All he ever wanted was family time and love. His love for is mom spoke volumes. Late in life Leon met and made peace with his biological father Efren Rodriguez, Sr., who preceded him in death.

Leon was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather Elias Marquez; his uncle, Ernest Bustillos, Sr.; his cousin Ernest Bustillos, Jr.; and his cousin/dearest friend Juan "Big John" Corrales, Jr.

Survived to cherish his memories are his maternal grandmother, Juanita "Janie" Marquez; parents Mario and Patricia Zermeno; his son Benjamin (Alyssa) Magallanez; his precious grandsons, Kendrick and Ezequiel; brothers, Christopher Rodriguez, Efren (Paula) Rodriguez, Jr., Jacob (Amanda) Natividad, Jacob Rodriguez; sisters, Nikole Zermeno, Emerald (Xavier) Zermeno, January (Chris) Bowers; 15 nephews, 14 nieces, 4 great nieces and 1 great nephew. He also leaves all who lovingly called him "Uncle Leo"; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends.

Celebration of life will be held at Memory Gardens Funeral Home on Saturday, February 26, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel.