Ángel Leonardo Sion

IN MEMORY OF ÁNGEL LEONARDO SION "PAPA"

Leon Sion - loving grandfather of six, father of three and adoring husband - passed away on December 20, 2020 at his home with his loved ones by his side. He was 93 years old. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Yolanda "Abi"; their three children: Leo, Vin and Tanya; six grandchildren: Natalie, Samantha, Marissa, Adriel, Danielle, and Jack; and first great-grandchild: Lilliana, who was born shortly after he passed.

Leon was born on November 12, 1927 in Manta, Ecuador to Leónidas and Herlinda Sion. He was one of seven children: two girls and five boys, whose first names all began with the letter 'L'. He was athletic and smart from a young age. After graduating high school, he worked as an accountant at Central Bank in Quito. This is where he met his wife, Yolanda. They got married in 1952 and moved to New York to raise their family. In their later years, they moved to California where they would stay permanently.

Leon helped raise and care for all of his grandchildren. He was also very active in the lives of his nieces and nephews. Family was important to him. Family was everything. He was well known within the local community, specifically at Baymonte Christian School where he picked up his grandkids nearly every day from preschool through 8th grade; San Augustine Catholic Church where he attended; Club One Sports Club where he regularly played racquet-ball; and Hidden Oaks where he was a long time homeowner.

Leon lived a long and fulfilling life, most of which he spent in outstanding health! Many were impressed by how great of shape he was in for his age both mentally and physically. He was sharp, quick witted and strong even at the end..He defied the odds. In terms of personality, Leon (better known as Papa) was warm, friendly and charismatic. He made many dear friends in Santa Cruz County throughout the years he lived here who can vouch just how wonderful he was - always happy and ALWAYS making jokes. There was never a dull moment with him.

When it came to his grandkids, Papa was unfailingly reliable and never late to anything. He was always punctual and at times, more than an hour early. Promptness was one of Papa's strong suits. He was present for every sporting event/practice, award ceremony, birthday, graduation, etc. He helped with car pool, homework, field trips, projects - any and everything. He'd go the extra mile and always give 100%. It seemed there was nothing he couldn't do.

A truly remarkable soul, he had an uncanny ability to reach people in a genuine and positive way. Several have shared with us how special he was to them and how deeply he touched their lives. We greatly appreciate every condolence and sweet memory shared - most notably, his infectious smile that could light up a room.

Papa was the patriarch of our family and will always be remembered for the joy, laughter and stability he brought to our lives…Rest in love, dear Papa. You are the BEST of the best. There is no one like you and it's really not the same without you here. We love you more than words and will miss you forever. We will hold you in our hearts until we get the chance to be with you again. Te amo mucho, mucho!

Due to pandemic restrictions, no public memorial service was given. A private spreading of the ashes will be held by the family.

Published in Press Banner · May 25, 2022