Abelardo DeLeon

In Loving Memory of Abelardo De Leon Sr. Abelardo De Leon Sr., affectionately known as Lalo, passed away peacefully at the age of 90 on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, surrounded by his family and close friends. Lalo lived a life marked by hard work, resilience, and deep love for his family. Born on July 4, 1934, in San Isidro, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, Lalo's early years were spent helping support his family, working to care for his younger siblings. He embraced every challenge, never shying away from hard labor, adversity, or a tough fight. His work ethic was unparalleled, whether he was employed as a bracero, farm laborer, cowboy, or sheepherder. Over the years, he traveled throughout Northern Mexico, Texas, Colorado, and Arizona, before settling in Kingsburg, California, in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley. In Selma, California, Lalo met his future wife, Lupita. The two married in 1967 and made their home in Kingsburg, where they raised their family. Lalo continued to work on farms and ranches in the area, gaining the admiration and respect of those who worked alongside him for his dedication, skill, and unwavering commitment to his craft. He worked in agriculture until his retirement at the age of 65. Outside work, Lalo enjoyed spending time with his beloved pet cat, Feather, his faithful companion Blue his dog and tending to his garden. He cherished his time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Lalo was a passionate sports fan, especially of boxing and his beloved Los Angeles Dodgers. Lalo was preceded in death by his wife, Guadalupe, and his cherished pet Feather. He is survived by his daughters, Lorena Ramos and Linda Appleby; son, Abelardo De Leon Jr.; son-in-law, Julian Ramos; daughter-in-law, Magdalena De Leon; grandchildren, Julian, Jordan, Jared, and Jade Ramos, Roberto, Sofia, and Cristian De Leon, and Jonah and Kiley Appleby; great-grandchildren, Oliver, James, Jack, Khloe, Kassidy and Cristian Jr. He is also survived by his brothers, Santos De Leon (Texas), Alfredo De Leon (Utah), Amado De Leon (Nuevo Leon, MX), and Angel De Leon (Nuevo Leon, MX). A viewing will be held on February 5, 2025, Wednesday, from 4:00-6:00 PM at Salser & Dillard Creighton Chapel in Kingsburg, CA. On February 6, 2025, Thursday, a Rosary will be held at 10:00 AM immediately followed by a Mass of Christian Burial 10:30 AM at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Selma, CA, followed by graveside services at Kingsburg Cemetery. Lalo's legacy of hard work, love for his family, and quiet strength will continue to inspire those who know him. May he rest in peace. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Creighton Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Abelardo DeLeon

July 4, 1934 - January 22, 2025