Leonardo Antonio Mellizo

Consistent & Reliable.

My Uncle, Leo Antonio Mellizo Jr., was born on August 30, 1960, in Cali, Colombia. In 1969, my grandparents, Leonardo and Olga Mellizo, brought their five children to the United States in search of greater opportunity and a better life. What always stood out about that family was the bond they shared. Each sibling had their own unique personality, their own strengths, and their own way of seeing the world. Yet somehow, they maintained a unity and camaraderie that never wavered. The Bond they share is special. Independent of differences they are always unified. Most of us knew him as “Big Leo” or “Big Daddy”—names that fit him perfectly later in life. But in his younger years, Uncle Leo was actually lean, athletic, and an outstanding soccer player. He played at a high level and was a key member of the varsity soccer team at Point Loma High School in 1977 and 1978.

Not long after, he met the love of his life, Laura. They married in 1985, and in 1987 they welcomed the birth of their son, Leo III— or “Little Leo.” Becoming a husband and father would become two of the most important roles of his life. In 1990, they purchased their home in Santee, California. That home became much more than just a house. It became the center of family gatherings, celebrations, holidays, and memories for so many of us sitting here today. If there was a party at Uncle Leo's house, you knew exactly what to expect. The Salsa Music at Maximum Volume, the food was incredible, and everyone was welcome. Family, friends, neighbors—it didn't matter. His door was always open. And that's really how Uncle Leo lived his life. His home wasn't just open to family. Friends like Marco, Jaime, Lupe, and Chavo became extended family. Over the years, he and Aunt Laura welcomed foreign exchange students from around the world, giving them opportunities and experiences they otherwise may never have had.

His roots in Santee also led to lifelong friendships. As a 23-year season ticket holder for the San Diego Chargers, he built friendships that lasted decades. People like Kenny, Julie, Marty,

Sherilynn, Mark, Steve, Piper and Cheryl, weren't just friends—they were family. Through wins and losses, through seasons and years, they remained together rooting for the Bolts. But those friendships extended far beyond football. Uncle Leo loved the outdoors, and many of his greatest memories were made camping and RV'ing with that same group of friends and their children. Whether it was a weekend trip or an adventure to places like Yosemite, they built a lifetime of memories together. Those friendships weren't measured in seasons or years—they were measured in decades, shared experiences, and the kind of loyalty that becomes increasingly rare in today's world. Professionally, Uncle Leo was a master tile setter. His craftsmanship can be found in some of the most beautiful homes and neighborhoods throughout San Diego. But the truth is, he was more than a tile setter.

He was a craftsman. If something was broken, he could fix it. If something needed to be built, he could build it. If

there was a project to tackle, somehow Uncle Leo already knew how to do it. As his grandson Diego often says: “If Grandpa can't fix it, no one can.”

And if there was one thing he loved more than building projects, it was building his family. He was incredibly proud of his son, Leo III, his daughter-in-law Alyssa, and especially his grandson Diego.

One thing I will always remember is that Uncle Leo never forgot the important moments. Birthdays. Holidays. Major life events.

Without fail, he would call. He would ask how I was doing, what projects I was working on, how my daughter Sophia

was doing. And before long, he'd be sharing stories about Leo, Alyssa, and Diego—stories that always brought a smile to his face.

He loved being a father. He loved being a grandfather. And he was Really Good at both. He was also deeply committed to his faith.

Many of you know how dedicated Laura has always been to the Church and its ministries. Whenever there was an event to prepare for, Uncle Leo was right there supporting her, running errands, picking up supplies, and helping make things happen. And if Laura wasn't ready on time, he was always quick to remind her:

“You're going to miss it, Laura!”

I think we have all heard him say it at one time or another. (pause)

But beyond the church events, Uncle Leo was faithful in the things that mattered. He prayed the Rosary. He lived his faith. He showed up. And as I look back on his life, —as a husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend, craftsman, and man of faith—I realize that the same qualities showed up everywhere. Consistency.

Reliability. Today, people often say things like, “Whatever you need, I'm here for you.” But Uncle Leo was actually that person.

He made a commitment to his marriage and honored it for 41 years. He planted roots in his home and cared for it for more than three decades. He supported his friends for decades.

supported his church. He supported his siblings and family without limit. And if you needed help, he was there—without judgment, without hesitation, and without expecting anything in return.

I know he was there for me many times. And I know many of you could stand here today and tell similar stories. So when people ask what kind of man Leo Mellizo was, I think the answer is simple.

He was the kind of man you could count on. A loving husband.

A devoted father and grandfather. A loyal friend. A faithful servant of God. And above all else, a man who was consistent and reliable.

What a beautiful legacy to leave behind. Thank you, Uncle Leo.

We love you, and we will miss you.