CONFIRMED: Leonilo Portillo, Veteran, US Air Force, Retired Chicago PD (199-25) 23 Oct 25
5354 Talley Rd
San Antonio, TX 78253
USA
US AIR FORCE VETERAN – RETIRED CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT
The family of Mr. Leonilo Portillo, a US Air Force Veteran, requests the presence and participation of the San Antonio Patriot Guard at the services, and the LEO supported procession, and graveside rendering of military honors of their loved one. We are honored to accept this invitation.
Leonilo “Leon” Portillo of San Antonio, Texas passed away on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at the age of 70. He was born on April 26, 1955, in Canutillo, Texas. He enlisted in the United States Air Force on July 31, 1973, and recalled that his enlistment was the best thing he could have done. Throughout his USAF military service, Airman Leonilo was recognized as an “Honor Graduate in Air Training Command,” “Outstanding Marksman” on the rifle range; and the achievement of the title of a Law Enforcement Specialist. He was honorably discharged from the USAF on July 30, 1977.
Leonilo retired from the Chicago Police Department after 30 years of law enforcement duties. Throughout those years there were assignments that highlighted his police career. Officer Portillo was recognized and presented a Chicago Police Department “Lifesaving Award” that read: Awarded to Sergeant Leonilo Portillo #920; “For a Successful Effort in Saving a Human Life Which Involved Exceptional Courage or Performance.” Another notable aspect of his Law Enforcement training and responsibilities included five years on the Chicago Police Special Weapons Assault Team (SWAT). Having been assigned protection duties in the United States Secret Service, Sergeant Portillo was presented a Certificate of Appreciation that read: “In special recognition of your efforts and superior contributions to the law enforcement responsibilities of the United States Secret Service.” (2011)
Leonilo Portillo volunteered for CASA as a child advocate, a position he took seriously and devoted his entire heart into improving children’s lives. He was a lifetime member of the Edgewood District Veterans 501 (3) C Non-Profit Organization. He was also a member of the Lion’s Club and volunteered with the Fort Sam Houston Memorial Services Detachment (MSD).
Leonilo was preceded in death by his parents, Concepcion, and Hermilo Portillo; his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Lucia, and Santos Mendoza; and two brothers- in-law, George and Victor Mendoza.
He is survived by his loving wife Martha; His children April Groveau, Tina Marie Guzman and Jason John Portillo (Beth); His grandchildren Mia Bella & Jacob Xavier Guzman, David Riley, Jordan James, and Layla Brooke Portillo. He is survived by his siblings Irma Moll, Mary Grand (Al), Hermilo Jr. (Andrea), Guadalupe (Christina), John (Adriana), Richard (Norman), Jesse, Ramon (Maria), Raul (Francine), and Laura Portillo. He remains in the heart of his brother-in-law, Albert Mendoza. He is survived by aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.
With Leon having spent so much time volunteering, he cherished the time he spent with his grandchildren the most. He expressed pride when watching them play sports, perform in plays and compete in dance competitions.
The family would like to thank the University Health 7 AYA staff and Gentiva North Hospice for the exceptional care and compassion they showed our loved one.
WEATHER: Hi 88 / Lo 68, 11 % Chance of Rain, 81 % Humidity, Wind: 6 mph ESE
REQUESTOR: Tina M. Guzman, Daughter
STAGING: 8:30 am, Thursday, October 23, 2025
Alamo Community Church
5354 Talley Road
San Antonio, Texas 78253
https://maps.app.goo.gl/PQESeQ65XwFLAkCw7
BRIEFING: 8:45 am
SERVICE: 9:30 am – “Plus they are having lunch after the service”
Alamo Community Church
5354 Talley Road
San Antonio, Texas 78253
https://maps.app.goo.gl/PQESeQ65XwFLAkCw7
KSU: 12:30 pm (Semper Gumby)
INTERMENT: 1:45 pm – Shelter #5 (Call to Verify)
Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery
1520 Harry Wurzbach Road
San Antonio, Texas 78209
https://goo.gl/maps/kQ68VALuUAptXpgS9
RC: Juan “Doc” Sanguino
sanguino5366@gmail.com
FC: Rich “Richie Rich” Pachecano
rich@pachecano.net
ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS
1. Iron horses if you can, cages are always welcome and appreciated and unless under special circumstances not allowed in processions. You do not have to have a motorcycle to participate in honoring our veterans.
2. Safety First: Please remember to properly hydrate (including the night before) before any outdoor activity and to dress appropriately. Do not hesitate to take a break at any time if you feel you need to get in the shade or get indoors and always ask for help at any time. Also please do not forget your sun screen.
3. Please remember that our mission is to stand tall and silent, and with honor and. NO TALKING, SMOKING, CHEWING OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS, OR CELL PHONE USE IN THE FLAG LINE!
***Safety Notice***
Before volunteering and/or attending any San Antonio Patriot Guard Riders missions we encourage you to review all safety information below. Included are some potential safety concerns to be aware of, however this does not include the full scope of all potential hazards. Anyone attending any San Antonio Patriot Guard Riders mission understands that they do so at their own risk. Neither the Patriot Guard Riders Organization nor its representatives are liable for any damages incurred on any PGR mission or event.
Funeral Processions/Escorts
EVERY RIDER IS SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for their own safety at all times while riding in a funeral procession.
At NO TIME are any riders authorized to block any intersection or otherwise block or impede traffic laws in any way. Only Law Enforcement officials are authorized to block and/or impeded the lawful flow of traffic.
If you choose to fly a Flag on your bike you are SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for ensuring it is secured and not a danger to any other rider or traffic.
Warm Regards,
Bob “Pizza Man” Johnson
Asst. State Captain
Deputy State Captain
San Antonio Patriot Guard
Dignity, Honor, Respect
Cell: 562-413-2223
“We can’t all be heroes. Some of us get to stand on the curb and clap as they go by.”
Will Rogers