Lionel Gallego
You will begin hearing loud mariachi music from above, the life of every party has moved upstairs. Lionel “Leo” Gallego entered into eternal rest on Monday, December 28, 2020. A beloved husband, brother, father, grandfather and friend, Leo had tremendous character, was fiercely loyal and the first to lend a hand. He would even put down his latest book if someone needed help.
Leo was born on May 16, 1942 in Alpine, Texas to Edward and Paula Gallego. He was one of eleven siblings. At the age of 14 the family moved from Texas to San Jose, California. Leo attended Andrew Hill High School. In high school, he met Jenora the love of his life. Following High School, Leo earned a Bachelor’s Degree from San Jose State, and continued his education at Stanford University where he received his Masters in Education. Leo and Jenora were married on November 11, 1966 at the Evangelical Free Church followed by
a lovely reception with family and friends. They settled down and began their life together in San Jose. They had two children that he doted on, Marci and Justin. Leo taught at the high school level for over 40 years and worked at San Jose, Gunderson and Willow Glen High Schools. He taught Spanish and History courses, and then went on to advise and mentor under-served students. During his tenure teaching, he impacted countless faculty and students;
he had a special way of connecting and relating with all those around him.
For the last ten years, Leo enjoyed his retirement. He spent time with his grandchildren (his pride and joy), reading, and tending to his rose garden and koi pond. If you were a neighbor of Leo, you also know how much he loved his classic hot rods. And every once in a while, you could hear the tires squealing as he went on a “joy ride.” Leo is survived by his wife Jenora, daughter Marci and son-in-law Jim, son Justin, three grandchildren: Zachary, Nicholas and Paolo, siblings: Celia, Eddie, Charlie and Mary, and many nieces and nephews.
Due to the pandemic, his Celebration of Life will be delayed until it is safe for all those who loved him to gather and honor his life. He will always be dearly loved and remembered as the best Papa ever. Don’t get into too much trouble up there Leo!