David Jesus De Leon, Jr., 76, a lifelong resident of Weslaco, Texas, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2024, at Harlingen Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. He will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.
David was born in Donna, Texas, on January 21, 1948, to Jesus “Chuy” De Leon and Julia Prado De Leon. His father, Chuy, an esteemed Spanish radio announcer known as “El Gallito Madrugador”, was a pioneer of “Conjunto” music at KGBT, KIRT, KSOX, and KIWW, and had introduced many then-young artists, “conjuntos”, whose reputations grew worldwide and continue to inspire many.
On April 18, 1968, David, while on brief leave after basic training from the Fort Polk Army Base, wed the love of his life, Maria Delfina Almaguer, at the San Martin de Porres Catholic Church in Weslaco, Texas.
David served our country with distinction in the Vietnam War, earning a Purple Heart for his bravery and a Bronze Star for his exceptional service. He rose to the rank of Sergeant before exiting in 1970.
His combat injury as a Private was documented in the book It Took Heroes - A Cavalry Chaplain’s Memoir of Vietnam, by Claude D. Newby. Approximately in 2014, David coincidentally encountered Newby’s memoir while browsing at the local Salvation Army. David was stunned to learn that he himself was given a section in the book. Newby’s memoir, and subsequent book, allowed David to learn that his life-threatening injuries occurred approximately 40 miles northwest of Saigon at the Michelin Rubber Plantation during Operation Atlas Wedge (March 17-24, 1969). During this brief period, the government reported to his newlywed wife and local news outlets that David was missing in action (MIA).
Upon returning home, David built a fulfilling life dedicated to his family and community. Over the years David worked in the oil field industry, and later for Tichenor Media System at KIWW/KGBT, before becoming the owner of McAllen Drive Axle.
He was a passionate reader of political science and history, forever engaged in lively discussions and seeking a deeper understanding of the world. When not engrossed in a book, he could be found strumming his guitar, filling the house with music, or fishing at South Padre Island.
David was a founding member of the Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH), Rio Grande Valley Chapter #1544, Harlingen, Texas. He was also a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post # 12178, Weslaco, Texas.
David is survived by his wife of 56 years, Maria Delfina (Almaguer) De Leon, their loving children, Denise Thatcher (Kevin), David De Leon (Julie), cherished grandchildren Xander Cole Thatcher and Trent Nathaniel Thatcher, brother Juan De Leon, and sister Elida De Leon-Olivenbaum. He is preceded in death by his baby brother Jose De Leon, parents Julia & Chuy, and sister Olga De Leon Loera (Reymundo).
David will be remembered for his unwavering integrity, infectious enthusiasm, and unwavering love for his family and community.
