Heliodoro "Leo" Zavala, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and pioneer in the field of interpreting services, passed away surrounded by loved ones on January 17, 2025, in Fresno, California, at the age of 81. His life was one of perseverance, joy, love, and an unwavering commitment to his family and community.

Born on March 12, 1943, near Matehuala, San Luis Potosí, Mexico, Leo grew up with a strong sense of determination that carried him through every chapter of his life. Immigrating as a young boy, he and his family spent years traveling and working throughout the southern and western United States as migrant farm workers. His family would settle first in Texas and then in California's Central Valley. Leo, a lifelong learner, graduated from high school in Donna, Texas, before pursuing his studies at Fresno City College. Throughout his life he remained dedicated to educating himself and instilled in his children the profound value of learning.

He spent his early career working for various governmental agencies until he recognized a critical need for Spanish-to-English and other foreign language interpreters in legal, medical, and business settings. With ambition, compassion, and integrity as his guiding principles, he took a bold step in 1977 by founding Certified Interpreting Services, the first interpreting agency in Fresno—and one of the first in the state—operating from an office across from Theodore Roosevelt High School and then in downtown Fresno. His work became a lifeline for many who needed their voices heard and understood. Upon Leo's retirement, the City of Fresno recognized his unrelenting commitment and service to the people of Fresno by proclaiming August 15, 2019, "Leo Zavala Day."

Beyond his professional achievements, Leo was a man of great heart and honor. A proud veteran of the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War from 1964 to 1970, he served his country with bravery and dedication. These qualities remained with him as he built not only a successful career as a respected businessman but also lifelong friendships, and a home filled with warmth, laughter, and love.

Leo held many varied interests and hobbies throughout his life. He had a deep love of nature and animals, including his canine companion, Karmelo—a cherished member of the family from 2013 to 2024. He also possessed an innate talent for fixing anything that required repair—a trait that he proudly passed on to his children and grandchildren. Leo treasured time spent outdoors and especially loved his home in Dunlap at the foot of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks—a place where nature's beauty matched the depth of his spirit. Whether reading, keeping active with a new project, barbecuing for loved ones, singing (especially with his compadre), or dancing with Jeanne under the stars, he embraced life fully.

Leo is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Eugenia "Jeanne" Zavala; his son, Fabian "Bobby" Villarreal (Leslie) of Houston, TX; and daughters Leticia Vasquez (Ray) of Tracy, CA, Deborah Hosey (Steve) of Fresno, CA, and Sonia Zavala (Alex Minella) of Westlake Village, CA. His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren—Brittney Winford, Celestina Renteria (Kenny), Nicholas Zavala Correa, Brenadette Garza (Noe), Deven Hosey, Chase Villarreal, Alexandria Villarreal, Dathan Hosey, Juliana Minella-Zavala, and Leo Minella-Zavala—and great-grandchildren—Julian Camarena, Evan Camarena, Case Callahan, Hendrix Hosey, Ethan Renteria, Justin Renteria, Cannon Hosey, Isla Garza, and Ian Garza.

He is also survived by his siblings: Francisco Zavala of Fresno, CA, Benedicta Motta of Fresno, CA, Audelia Bazan of Waxahachie, TX, Guadalupe Zavala of Sanger, CA and Jose Zavala of Fresno, CA. He was preceded in death by his parents Juan and Margarita Zavala; stepmother, Teresa Zavala; brother, Fernando Zavala; and sister, Margarita Valdez.

A man known for being hardworking yet bighearted—a trailblazer whose persistence helped shape opportunities for others—Leo leaves behind an indelible mark on those who knew him. May Leo's memory continue to inspire strength and kindness in all who were fortunate enough to know and love him.

A graveside service with military honors will be held on Monday, March 10, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the Sanger Cemetery. Flowers may be sent to the Sanger Cemetery, or memorial gifts may be made in Leo's name to the American Diabetes Association or the American Heart Association.