Leonel Cantu

Leonel Cantu passed away on December 31, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and an unmatched passion for life. Born on January 13, 1948, in Edinburg, Texas, Leonel was a man whose vigor and kindheartedness were as grand as the state he called home. The beloved son of Felipe and Maria Cantu, he grew up alongside his siblings, Felipe "Pipo" Cantu Jr. (Alicia Cantu), Monte Cristo Trucking, Jesus Cantu (Angelica Cantu), J. Cantu Trucking, Armando Cantu (Petra Cantu), M.R.C Trucking, Rodolfo "Rudy" Cantu, and Maria Crusita Vega (Teo Vega), instilled with strong family values that he would carry throughout his life.

For 48 years, Leonel shared a beautiful and fulfilling life with his devoted spouse, San Juana M. Cantu. Together they raised a loving family, including children Juan Raul Cortez (Lupita), Fernando A. Cortez, Felix Cantu (Monica), Jessica Cantu, Leonel Cantu Jr, and Omar Cantu. Leonel's joy was multiplied with the arrival of each grandchild; Juan Raul Jr., Alexa, Diego, Charlie, Danyka, Omar Jr., Avery, Evelynn, Felix Jr., and Delila, who all became the light of his life.

Leonel's career in trucking spanned over 60 years, a testament to his enduring dedication and strong work ethic. He was a familiar face in the trucking community, known for his reliability and the respected family trucking businesses, Monte Cristo Trucking, J. Cantu Trucking, and M.R.C Trucking, which he was proud to witness his brothers excel in. Those who knew Leonel would attest to his unwavering commitment to his work and the pride he took in servicing the community, a trait he shared with his brothers.

The simple pleasures in life brought immense joy to Leonel. He was an avid fisherman and hunter, finding peace and contentment in the beauty of nature. Many will recall his infectious laugh and the twinkle in his eye when he recounted his adventures. Football weekends were cherished times for Leonel, as he cherished these moments surrounded by his loved ones, making memories that would be cherished for years to come. 

Visitation will be Thursday, January 8, 2026 from 1:00 pm to 9:00 pm with a rosary to begin at 8:00 pm at Rivera Hillcrest Funerals and Cremations, 1300 N. I-69C in Edinburg. Funeral mass will be Friday, January 9, 2026 at 10:00 am at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church - Edinburg. Burial will be Friday, January 9, 2026 at 11:00 am at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Edinburg, Texas.

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