Leroy Folkert Henze

Leroy Folkert Henze, born August 20, 1934, in rural South Bexar County, Texas, passed away peacefully on April 10, 2025, in Floresville, Texas. The date of his passing held deep personal meaning, as it marked the birthday of his late daughter, Cynthia Kay Henze.

Leroy proudly served his country as a U.S. Marine before embarking on a career as a machinist at Kelly Field Air Force Base. There, he contributed to the maintenance of the C-5A aircraft. Despite his professional accomplishments, Leroy's heart remained rooted in agriculture. A lifelong rancher, he dedicated himself to raising cattle and sheep and harvesting hay-always with his family at the center of his life.

Leroy is preceded in death by his parents, Rudolph F. Henze and Louise A. Janszen Henze; his brothers, Harry Louis Henze, Sr. and Gilbert John Henze; his sister, Dorothy Henze Schubert; and his cherished daughter, Cynthia Kay Henze.

He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Vera Cale Henze; daughters Diana Jean Kidd (Thomas) and Joanne Leigh Garcia (Michael); and son John Raymond Henze (Rachel). His memory will also be cherished by his grandchildren: Derek Alexander Garcia (Janie), Kristen Lee Robles (Dakota), Lindsey Janae Maldonado (Peter), Stephen Austin Henze, Chad Michael Garcia (Arami), and Catherine Abigail Henze. Great-grandchildren Cooper Lee Smith and Maitlyn Ciara Smith also mourn his passing.

Leroy is also remembered by his brothers Richard R. Henze and Robert M. Henze, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

A private family memorial service is scheduled to take place at his daughter's residence.

Though his hearing faded in later years, Leroy's enduring response to those he loved remained clear: "Love you too, darlin'." May that sentiment continue to echo in the hearts of all who knew him.