Obituary for Rafael Ortiz Santiago
Rafael Ortiz Santiago
1939-2020
Rafael “Fello” Ortiz Santiago was called home to be with his Lord at 8:48 am, Tuesday, August 25, 2020 at Advent Health East Hospital in Orlando Florida.
He was born to parents Rafael Ortiz Resto and Felicita Santiago July 9, 1939, in Vega Baja Puerto Rico then raised by his beloved grandmother, Gerarda Resto. His fascination for the guitar began as a young boy in church. He soon taught himself to play and carried that passionate gift for the rest of his life.
It was in the early 1960’s that his love for the Lord and passion for guitar birthed Puerto Rico’s beloved “Trio Misionero.” The trio traveled to many places and countries bringing the melodic message of salvation to many.
As Puerto Rico fell on hard economic times, Rafael decided to head to the U.S. seeking better opportunities. In 1966, he arrived in New York and resided in Sunset Park, Brooklyn. He worked hard to achieve the American dream, first at Miamonides Hospital in Brooklyn, then at Fedders Air Conditioning Company in NJ. His dream of becoming a homeowner became a reality. Late 1960’s saw the birth of “Trio Los Mensajeros” in Brooklyn.
Most recently, Rafael lived in Orlando Florida with his wife, youngest daughter and grandchildren. Having just celebrated his 81st birthday on July 9th, he was blessed by God with strength and health. He was a hard-working man, there was nothing he couldn’t fix or build. Rafael was an active member at Iglesia de Dios Pentecostal Movimiento Internacional in Orange County, Florida. He also worked at Vista Lakes Elementary School in Orlando as a crossing guard. His passion for music led him to continue playing his melodic guitar in various trios, and churches. He was loved and respected by many.
Rafael is survived by his loving wife Maria Gonzalez; his youngest daughter Yesenia Ortiz; his granddaughters, Yanishka Perez Ortiz & Joleishka Ortiz; his grandson Josiah A Ortiz.
Rafael is also survived by his Eldest daughter Mayra Ortiz-Ranko, his middle son Rafael Ortiz Jr and his younger daughter Sandra Ortiz-Giraldo.
His grandchildren: Jessica, Victor, Daniel, Joshua, Chrissy, Krystal and Jason;
His great-grandchildren: Alyssa, Sydnee, Roberto, Luis, Jalen, Nyemi, Jeremy, Taina, Mia, Jahaili, Caleb, Shawn, Jaden, and Alivia also survive him.
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