Daniel Mario Leal

Daniel, adoringly known as Dan, was born on August 15, 1963 in Brownsville, Texas to David and Edelmira “Elma” Leal. The 4th of 4 boys, Daniel was destined for success with an innate sense of wit, intelligence, tenacity, and dedication. Dan’s educational journey continued after his high school graduation in 1981 from Brownsville Pace High School. Higher education was obtained from The University of Texas at Austin, where Dan proudly wore burnt orange and established a sense of leadership by becoming a founding member of fraternity Phi Delta Sigma alongside his ever-present friends, Steve Flores, Duane Salinas, Todd Kibler, and numerous brothers. After 4 years in undergraduate studies, Dan obtained his Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering in1985.

With providence and fate by his side, Dan met the love of his life, Elna, during Christmas break in December of 1985. Their friendly collegiate rivalry (Dan, a fighting Longhorn, and Elna, a diehard Aggie) was a genuine icebreaker on their spontaneous blind date; which turned into a day filled with fun activities, cultivating a piqued interest and promised second date. Dan and Elna’s mothers were well acquainted in childhood and even endured a hurricane together 52 years prior in 1933. As the love and flowers blossomed, Dan and Elna celebrated their love and wed at Getsemani Presbyterian Church in the Spring of 1987. Their journey as a couple and lifelong travel partners commenced with deep love and dedication.

As a young & ambitious chemical engineer, Dan was hired by BASF Corporation, where he dedicated his entire career which spanned 30 years. BASF introduced Dan and Elna to new worlds and homes, residing in Lake Jackson, TX; Angleton, TX, Beaumont, TX; Shreveport, LA; Tampico, TA (Mexico); a short stint in Mexico City, MX; and returned home to the Houston area (Missouri City, TX). Dan advanced his education in Shreveport, LA, attending evening classes while simultaneously working. The hard work was celebrated in 2006 when Dan obtained his Master of Business Administration from Centenary College. While employed at BASF, Dan placed his undergraduate and graduate leadership skills into action, beginning as a Chemical Engineer, advancing to Production Engineer, Operations Manager, Site Director, and concluding with the acceptance of Vice President of Operations: BASF Mexicana and later BASF North America.

Dan enjoyed brewing craft beer and creating delicious food for family and friends. Dan and Elna would travel down to South Padre Island to soak in the sun, hear the waves & enjoy the beautiful sunsets while sitting on the balcony. Dan especially appreciated the art of hook-line-sinker and preparing freshly caught fish. Dan and Elna traveled the world together enjoying their love for each other and appreciating diverse cultures. After 30 dedicated years, Dan departed BASF in 2015 to pursue other interests and continued to reside in Missouri City, TX. During his spare time, Dan dedicated his talents to the Seabreeze Beach Resorts Board of Directors and served in the capacity of vice president and president.

Dan is survived by his wife, Elna Plata Leal, brothers David Leal Jr [Sandra], Victor Leal [Sylvia], and Carlos Leal; Mother-in-Law Eunice M. Plata, brothers & sisters-in-law Richard Plata, Elia Plata, Elva Plata Garcia [Josue], and Paul Plata; numerous cousins, nieces & nephews, grand nieces & nephews, and his beloved pets Cooper Kitty & Rosen Kitty.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents David Leal Sr. and Elma Leal, his father-in-law Pete P. Plata, and his brother-in-law Robert E. Plata.

A celebration of life service will be on September 7, 2024 (Saturday) at 10 AM at Chapel by the Sea, 33425 State Park Rd 100, South Padre Island, TX 78597. If you're unable to attend, the family welcomes you to watch the Live Stream: https://www.youtube.com/@chapelbytheseasouthpadre

Per Dan’s wishes a private scattering of ashes in the Gulf of Mexico near South Padre Island will take place after the service.

A special thanks to our dear neighbors Gary & Marge Mabry who have always been there for us even during the most difficult times. I could not have gone through this had it not been for you both.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the church where Dan & Elna were married on March 21, 1987: San Benito Presbyterian Church, P.O.Box 444, San Benito, TX, 78586. This church has a special significance as both Dan and Elna’s grandparents were founding members of the congregation in the early 1900’s.