Announcing the passing of Retired Sergeant First Class Adan Castelo Leija on September 22, 2023, at the age of 84. Our loving and devoted father ,husband and friend to all whose lives he touched. He has now gone home to be with God and watches us from above. He was born in Fort Stockton TX on August 13, 1939, to parents Gregorio Leija and Maria Elidia Castelo. Raised by his father Julio Acosta. “Pelon” to all those who knew him best.
He was a genuine, fun loving, kind person, who knew no stranger. His grandkids lovingly called him Tata.They were his pride and joy. As a grandkid you knew that if you needed help he was always there for you. Family is what he LIVED for.
He enjoyed cooking, fishing, camping and a barbecue with family and friends. One of his greatest pastimes was music and dancing, there wasn’t a party he didn’t enjoy, always the life of the party. He loved to tell you a story or two of the past, even if you had heard it a few times before. He was proud to have served in the U.S. Army for 23 years and served two tours in Vietnam. He LOVED life.
Adan was preceded in death by his parents Julio and Maria Elidia Acosta, Gregorio Leija, Wife Amelia M. Leija, Son Eddie Duarte, Brothers Roy Castelo, Paul Acosta, Gregorio Leija.
Adan is survived by his Brother Pete Acosta, Sister Eva Acosta. Childern Manuela, Adan, Diana Noelia, Corinna, Lily, Naomi. Numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren.
True Chicano, but an American soldier at heart
There will be a Rosary at 9AM on September 28th at Primrose Funeral Services in Lytle, TX. Mass will follow at 10AM at St. Andrews Catholic Church. Later that evening there will be a visitation from 5-7pm at Primrose Funeral Services in Lytle, TX. On Friday, September 29th we will be heading to Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery for an honors service.
Arrangements are under the direction of Primrose Funeral Services in Lytle.
Adan Castelo Leija August 13, 1939- September 22, 2023
