Leona Delory Haase, 76, of Hallettsville, died Jan. 23, 2009. She was born on May 21, 1932, to Frank L. & Bessie Orsak Mucala near Breslau, Texas. She attended Redhost School as a child and in 2008 was instrumental in attaining a Historical Marker for the school. She graduated from Hallettsville High School in May 1949. Her first job was at Ben's Drive-Inn, where she worked as a waitress for Ben & Dottie Rother. On days off, she enjoyed driving her 1929 4 door Model A Ford to the country to help her mother and father on the farm.

After WWII, Leona met August R. Haase (from Mont-Sweet Home Area) at an Appelt's Hill dance. Although she was too young to marry, August & Leona became inseparable. They married on Sept. 3, 1951 and moved to San Antonio, Texas. There August & Leona worked at Kelly Air Force Base, August as a radar technical and Leona as a secretary. In 1957, Leona opened an Antique Shop at home, started "Flea Markets" and was recognized as "The Face of San Antonio".

Leona became pregnant and in 1960, their daughter Linda was born. Gary their son followed in 1962. Through their school years, Leona was active in Church activities, was a PTA Mom, Homeroom Mom, Girl Scout Leader, Volleyball and Baseball coach, and Volleyball Referee. She also enjoyed playing sports and especially volleyball. Her favorite time with friends was "Wednesday Night Volleyball". August & Leona also enjoyed traveling and have visited almost every state in the USA. In 1968, Leona took in elderly people. Leona also attended 4 years of college, took a job at San Antonio Parks & Recreation Department, and worked with children and adults.

In 1977, August, Leona, Linda, Gary, and 6 elderly residents moved to Hallettsville. Here Leona enjoyed many years of caring for elderly and disabled residents. Leona loved to cook, have parties for family, friends and residents; travel, dance and take pictures. August & Leona also enjoyed Model T rides in parades and with tours. Besides all the friends and relatives, Leona leaves behind her faithful Chihuahua companion "Baby".

My father August and I wish to thank everyone who has offered a hand to my mother as she struggled with her illnesses this last few years. We thank you for all who have kept us in thoughts and prayers. Her Loving Daughter, Linda

Leona is survived by: her husband August; son Gary A. Haase & wife Jeanie of Colorado; daughter Linda Haase Mikulenka & husband Donnie of Hallettsville; brother Eugene Mucala of Hallettsville; sister Gladys Koval of San Antonio; and 5 grandchildren, Corey Barton Conant, Chauncey Barton Conant, Heather Haase, Kelly Haase, and Hillary Haase.

Leona was preceded in death by her parents.

Service: 2 pm, Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2009, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Hallettsville. Visitation: 11 am, Tuesday, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Rosary: 1 pm, Tuesday, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Pallbearers: Corey Conant, Chauncey Conant, Chris Koval, David Stockhorst, Victor Haase Jr., andTimothy Haase. Honorary Pallbearers: Al Hartfield and John Kuehn. Burial: Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery. Officiate: Rev. John Peters. Memorials: American Diabetes Association or Sacred Heart Catholic Church.