Leandro C.

Lara

In Loving Memory Of

Leandro C. Lara

March 23, 1948 - March 16, 2026

Leandro C. Lara, 77, of Harlingen, Texas, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2026, just days before his 78th birthday. He was born on March 23, 1948, in Harlingen, Texas.

Leandro spent many years of his life in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he lived for over 50 years before returning to his hometown of Harlingen. He proudly served his country in the United States Army as a sergeant, completing two years of service in Vietnam. His time in the military was a defining part of his life, and he cherished the camaraderie he shared with fellow veterans. He was also a proud member of the Kent County Honor Guard, where he found great meaning in honoring fellow servicemen and women. He deeply loved being part of this organization and the brotherhood it provided.

Leandro was a man of simple joys. He could often be found sitting by the window in his chair, scratching his lottery tickets, enjoying his favorite Western movies, or spending time visiting and sharing stories with other veterans. He had a warm presence and a deep appreciation for life's quiet moments.

He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Eloisa Contreras Lara; his father, Jesus Lara; his first wife, Rosa Lara; his second wife, Sharon Lara; his daughter, Melinda Lara; and his cherished cat, Boo, who held a special place in his heart.

Leandro is survived by his children: Jesus Lara; Scott (Lynn) Williamson; Shawn (Mary) Williamson; and Shannon (Greg) Veenstra. He also leaves behind a large and loving family, including 14 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren, and his five siblings: Arcadia Hickman, Elizabeth Ramirez, Jesusa Lara, Guadalupe (Debbie) Gutierrez, and Rebecca Gutierrez (Paul) Tenney.

Leandro will be remembered for his service, his dedication to honoring others, his stories, and the quiet, steady way he lived his life. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Graveside Services for an Inurnment will be held at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at the Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery in Mission, TX followed with full military honors under the auspices of the American Legion Post 1065 of Mission, TX.

With profound love and remembrance, the family of Leandro C. Lara have entrusted his funeral arrangements to Lenny Elizondo, funeral director/owner of Trinity at Harrison Funeral Home, 1002 East Harrison Ave., Harlingen, Texas 78550. For information, please call (956) 364-2444 or visit www.trinityfunerals.com