Leonardo Ruiz Escalante

Leonardo Ruiz "Chico" Escalante, 83, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, friend, and American Soldier who answered his nation's call without hesitation, passed away on June 29, 2026. Born on September 6, 1942, in Chihuahua, Mexico, Leonardo lived a life marked by steadfast work, deep devotion, and a courage that met hardship without surrender. His example—quietly carried, faithfully lived—remains an enduring source of strength to all who loved him.

Upon the passing of his parents, he moved to Tucson, Arizona, where he joined the Army—beginning an honorable career defined by resilience, duty, and a willingness to go wherever he was called. He would later spend 30 years living in Chandler, Arizona. He eventually settled in Millbrook, Alabama, where he lived for the rest of his days.

Leonardo’s military service took him across the globe, exploring and granting him new life experiences. A proud United States Army paratrooper with the 101st Airborne Division, he served with Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 327th Infantry during the Vietnam War. He stood shoulder to shoulder with his fellow paratroopers in some of the conflict’s most difficult and dangerous battles, living the values of duty, courage, and selfless service. Like so many of his generation, he did not seek recognition; he simply answered the call. Yet his service did not go unnoticed. His extraordinary courage under fire was recognized with the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, and multiple Purple Hearts, amongst many other military honors. These decorations are more than medals. They are enduring reminders of a man who willingly faced danger, who sacrificed for others, and who bore the wounds of war in defense of freedom.

The Scriptures remind us in the Gospel of John, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” While Leonardo was blessed to return home from war, he gave a part of himself on every battlefield where he served. Like countless veterans, he carried the weight of that service throughout his life with quiet dignity and remarkable strength. To his family, thank you for sharing him with a grateful nation. To those who served beside him, thank you for standing with him when the burden was heavy. May we remember that the freedoms we enjoy are preserved by men and women like Leonardo Escalante—ordinary people who have answered an extraordinary call.

In later years, Leonardo’s devotion was focused on home. He cherished his family, loved cooking for them, and valued time spent together talking, laughing, and sharing the moments that become a family’s lasting treasure.

Leonardo found joy in simple, steady pleasures: fishing, bowling, hunting, billiards, Ford Mustangs, and watching his “kiddos” play and learn. He delighted in sharing his passions—inviting anyone to a game of pool or chess, often followed up with the familiar challenge: “Let’s play again.” He loved to reminisce about days long gone, such as the time he scored three touchdowns for Sunnyside High. Above all, he encouraged his children and grandchildren to be the best version of themselves that they could be, offering words that reflected both hard-won endurance and unwavering faith: “If I can survive bullets, a hand grenade, win the fight against PTSD and persevere with cancer, you have no reason to lose your faith. We have a day when God calls us home. Until that day, we keep on trucking.”

He will be remembered as a husband, brother, father, the greatest Tata, a beloved presence whose strength was derived from his love for life. He credited God, the love of his family, and his brothers in arms, for his life’s experience.

Leonardo was preceded in death by his father, Panfilo Escalante; mother, Baldomera Ruiz Escalante; his loving wife of 53 years, Yolanda Escalante; as well as several siblings.

He is survived by his children, Joseph Ruiz Escalante (Ashley), Catherine Bender, Mark Escalante (Sandra), John “Patrick” Jones, Leonardo Escalante Jr. (Andrea), Marizel Escalante (Justin) and Gilberto Escalante (Antoinette); a host of grandchildren; great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews.

The family would like to express their utmost appreciation to his best friend and caregiver during his last few years, Michele Bohannon; as well as his cherished companion, Dianne Newton, who came to be considered as family.

As we commend Leonardo into the loving arms of Almighty God, we do so with confidence that his watch is now complete. His duty has been fulfilled faithfully. May the Lord grant him eternal rest; perpetual light be shined upon him and bless him with everlasting peace. Leonardo, your final jump is complete. Your mission is accomplished. Your brothers-in-arms now stand the watch. May God bless you and keep you until that day when we are reunited once again. Airborne… All the Way.

Visitation will be held at Ridout's-Brown-Service Prattville, 347 East Main Street, Prattville, AL 36067, on July 14, 2026, from 9:00 am to 10:00 am. The Funeral Service will follow at Ridout's-Brown-Service Prattville on July 14, 2026, at 10:00 am. Graveside Service with military honors will be held at Alabama National Cemetery, 45M7+8H, Montevallo, AL 35115, on July 14, 2026, at 2:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of Leonardo may be made to the American Cancer Society, The Patriot Guard Riders or to the 101st Airborne Division Association.