Leonardo (Chano) Encinas Acosta was born in Ciudad Morelos, Baja California on June 21, 1978 to Rosa Elena (Acosta) and Daniel Araujo Encinas. He came to Kern County at the age of 2 years old, along with his eleven (11) siblings he was raised here in Shafter where he attended the local schools. Family was always first, whenever there was a celebration or gathering he was the one most excited about it. He enjoyed all types of music, playing billiards and was conscious about his physic; maintaining a regular exercise routine. His mother remembers him as being a good housekeeper, picking up after everyone, there was a place for everything and everything in its place. Chano had a happy spirit that accompanied the smile he shared with everyone he greeted; his chuckling laughter will be missed. Although he was often away from home, he kept in close contact with his loving family. Leonardo Encinas Acosta is survived by his parents Elena (Acosta) and Daniel Araujo Encinas; long time companion and love Veronica Valdez; sons, Jesus and Saul Encinas, daughter Briana Encinas; brothers Jesus and wife Lucy, Daniel and wife Tina, Julio and wife Wanda, Leobardo and wife Leonora, Simon and Francisco Verdugo; sisters, Lorena and husband Don Luna, Reyna Encinas and husband Esteban, Francisca and husband Richard Herrera, and Nereyda and husband Valentino Verdugo; many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles along with a large extended family. Father Ralph Bulleomini is officiating Mass of the Resurection for Leonardo Encinas Acosta, age 31 of Shafter, on Monday, December 7, 2009 – 10:00 at St. Therese's Catholic Church . Visitation will begin at 2pm with the Recitation of the Holy Rosary at 7pm.