Rev. Ezequiel "Zeke" Leija finished his race on September 1, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on February 1, 1953, in Crowell, Texas to Jose Leija and Felis Ramos. He is preceded in death by his parents Jose and Felis Leija; siblings Rose Vigil and Joe Leija. He is survived by his loving wife of 49 years Elizabeth Leija; children Adrian (Angela) Leija and Becky (Josh) Garcia; 8 grandchildren; siblings Savino (Juanita) Leija, JoAnn Leija and Marce Leija; relatives and friends.

Pastor Leija's spiritual journey began in 1969 when he was saved at Aposento Alto Church in Milliken, CO. Feeling a divine calling, he left school during his freshman year to dedicate his life to ministry. He pursued theological studies at Instituto Biblico Magdiel in Matamoros, Tamaulipas, Mexico, graduating in 1972.
Pastor Leija commenced his pastoral ministry at Aposento Alto in Milliken, CO. After serving for eight years, he felt called to support the Racetrack Chaplaincy of America (RTCA) at Arlington Park in Chicago, Illinois. He served as Chaplain there for two years before returning to Colorado in 1983, where he was elected Pastor at Templo Jerusalem in Gill, CO.

In 1990, Pastor Leija followed God's call to lead Zion Assembly of God in Grand Junction, CO. He faithfully served this congregation for 17 years. In 2007, he transitioned to a role with the Central Latin District of the Assemblies of God, serving as Secretary/Treasurer for a decade. During this time, he also supported local churches as an interim pastor. He also served the district as the Sunday School Director and Executive Presbyter.

In 2017, Pastor Leija was elected as Pastor of Templo Gethsemani in Commerce City, CO, where he ministered till his passing.

To those who knew him, he was many things: a husband, a father, a grandfather, an uncle, a brother, a friend, and to his congregation, Pastor Zeke. But above all, Zeke was a hero in the truest sense of the word.

Zeke's love for sports was infectious. Whether he was on the field playing or in the stands cheering, his enthusiasm was unmatched. Sports were not merely a pastime for him; they were a way to connect with others and to share moments of joy and camaraderie. His passion for the game mirrored his passion for God—energetic, wholehearted, and unwavering.

Family was the cornerstone of Zeke's life. He cherished every moment spent with those he loved, creating memories that will be treasured forever. His dedication as a husband, father and grandfather was evident in every action, every word, and every gesture of love.

Yet, Zeke's greatest calling was his role as a pastor. To his flock, he was a guiding light, a source of strength, and a beacon of hope. Whether in Milliken, Gill, Grand Junction, or Commerce City, Pastor Zeke touched countless lives with his compassion, wisdom, and unwavering faith. He was always there, ready to offer a listening ear, a comforting word, or a helping hand.

Zeke's legacy is one of kindness, generosity, and unyielding faith. He leaves behind a community forever changed by his presence and a family that will continue to honor his memory. As we remember Zeke today, let us celebrate the hero he was to us all and strive to carry forward his spirit of love, faith, and dedication.
He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.