PFC Leonel Nevarez, Jr. passed away October 26, 2010. He was 19. Leonel was born on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 1991 in Corpus Christi, Texas to Leonel and Marisela Gomez Nevarez.

The only son and older brother to three sisters, Leonel was an adventurous, playful and out-going child.  In his youth and as a young man, Leonel enhanced these attributes only to add bravery, strength, dedication and loyalty to his character. Leonel attended Odem schools.  He graduated Odem High School in 2009 as an Honor Graduate. Leonel was a proud Odem Owl who excelled not only as a student, but also in football, baseball, track and band.  Leonel was a gifted dancer and he loved to fish, both pastimes he enjoyed since childhood.  Leonel was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Odem, where he served as a lector. Leonel loved to be with family and friends and tried to equally spend time with both, often trying to be two places at the same time.  Leonel joined the United States Army and was graduating November 9, 2010 as a Lab Technician.
He leaves behind wonderful memories, a beautiful smile and a kind spirit. Leonel was one of the most loving people you could ever meet, and he wore his heart on his sleeve.  “As you are embraced in the arms of Jesus tonight and every night, may you find peace and comfort, Leonel.  And until we reunite, know that you are in our hearts for ever.”  Survivors include his wife: PFC Tracy (Turauski) Nevarez of Tacoma, WA; his parents Leonel and Marisela Nevarez of Odem, Texas; three sisters: Larissa, Shamanda and Mary Ann Nevarez, all of Odem, Texas; maternal grandparents: Arturo and Maria de Jesus Munoz, both of Odem, Texas; paternal grandmother: Zoila Trevizo of Odem, Texas; mother-in-law: Carol (George) Belgarde of Chetek, Wisconsin; father-in-law: Tom (Linda) Turauski of Chetek, Wisconsin; and many, many friends.  Preceding in death are paternal grandfathers Leopoldo Nevarez and Elias Fernandez; and great-grandfather Francisco Rodriguez.
Visitation will begin Sunday, October 31, 2010, 4:00 PM at Resthaven Funeral Home in Sinton, Texas. A rosary will be held Monday, November 1, 2010, 7:00 PM at the funeral home. Funeral Mass will be November 2, 2010, 10:00 AM at Sacred Heart Church in Odem, Texas with Father Isaias Estepa as celebrant. Burial will follow at San Pedro Cemetery in Odem, Texas. Pallbearers are Miguel Lugo, Luis Valencia, Leonard Mejia, Brian Nevarez, Cathy Garcia and Mariah Pisana.
Tribute video available online at www.resthavenfunerals.com.
Services entrusted to Resthaven Funeral Home in Sinton, Texas

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