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Antonio Suarez Obituary
'Tony'
Mr. Suarez, 51, died early Wednesday, April 18, 2007. He was born February 2, 1956 in Havana, Cuba to Roberto and Miriam Suarez. Tony came to Charlotte with his family in 1972 and attended Myers Park High School, graduating in 1974. He attended Appalachian State University and received a BA in Business Administration from Belmont Abbey College. Tony was an avid soccer player who played professionally with both the Carolina Lightin' and the Cleveland Force teams. He was known for his long hair and lightning speed that thrilled Charlotte fans in 1981.
Tony was a loving father, husband, son, uncle, brother, and friend that will always be remembered for his sense of humor and his competitive nature. Survivors include his wife, Marianne; children, Autumn and Antonio Capy; parents, Roberto and Miriam Suarez of Miami, FL; grandmother, Amelia Campuzano of Miami, FL; siblings, Roberto Suarez, Jr., Miriam King and husband, Morgan, Elena Suarez, Armando Suarez, Raul Suarez, Teresa Suarez and husband, Jim Fernandez, of Miami, Esperanza Kelly and husband, Steve, of Brisbane, Australia, Miguel Suarez of Cayman Islands, Carlos Suarez and wife, Barbara, Gonzalo Suarez, and Ana Fleming and husband, Tom, of Charlotte, NC; mother-in-law, Ellie Fagan; sisters and brothers-in-law, Giacomo and Kami Fagan, Ellie and Louis Rose, Joseph Fagan, Eileen and Eric Jones, Kevin and Stephanie Fagan; and wonderful nieces and nephews, Carlos, Jesse, Cheryl, Michael, Gonzalo Jr., Lena, Alejandra, Roberto, Louis IV, Ragan, Elizabeth, Mary Frances, Wilson, Giacomo, Tori, and Tara.
A prayer service will be held on Friday, April 20 at 7:00 PM at Hankins & Whittington Funeral Service with the family receiving friends following until 8:30 PM. A Funeral Mass to celebrate his life will be held on Saturday, April 21 at 9:30 AM at St. Patrick's Cathedral.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to Alzheimer's Association Western Carolina, Box 999, 3800 Shamrock Dr. Charlotte, North Carolina 28215.
Arrangements are in the care of Hankins & Whittington Funeral Service 1111 East Blvd., online at www.hankinsandwhittington.com .
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Antonio Suarez
Sponsored by The Suarez Family.
Dave Pierce
April 14, 2022
The legacy email popped up on my email. Cannot believe it has been 15 years since Tony´s passing. I hope this page stays around as it is good to be remembered. We just had our 40 year Lightnin´ reunion and we all got to reminisce about Tony and his time in the sun as one of Charlote´s first superstars.
Luis Sastoque
April 14, 2020
A terrific friend - I attended Appalachian State University as a soccer player and Tony made friends with me right away. Very genuine and giving person - he invited me to his family's traditional Thanksgiving ground roasted - Lechon (specially cooked hog) _ delicious. I miss the "Cuban Rocket" ..miss his smile and warmth! I can still see him smiling!!
Kenneth Collins
June 20, 2018
I was thinking about Tony today. I met Tony at Ric Flairs Golds Gym at South park. He was the kind of guy you met, that it seemed you've known him for years. We soon started working out together. He had that electric smile. I miss my old friend. He shined a bright light. I'll never forget him.
Dave Pierce
May 7, 2012
I am glad the guestbook is still going. I was thinking about my old friend and teammate and can't believe we just recently had the 5th anniversary of Tony's passing. It was a privilege to be present and see Tony posthumously inducted into the NC Soccer hall of fame along with my other teammate Bill Finneyfrock. The entire 1981 Championship team was also inducted into the NC Soccer Hall ring of honor. It was great to see most of the Suarez family in attendance and Tony's Mom looked extremely proud (as she deserved to be). Time really has no bounds and I am thankful for that.
Luis sastoque
November 26, 2011
Tony and Ii played together at ASU, his death rocked me... Especially since I did not find out about it until a year later!!!
We had such a good time - I recall meeting "The Tribe" - a dozen Suarez at the time. Thanksgiving time of the year in NC always bring memories for me - Tony invited this Florida kid to stay at his home in my first year at ASU.. They made room for me at his home!! Awesome pig-picking in the back yard. Great soccer player!! The Cuban rocket is what we called him... I remember his generosity and kindness towards his friends.... Memories of the time at ASU for me will always have special thoughts of Tony!
Glad to have gotten to know him-if anyone wants to chat or can let me know about the rest of the family please call me (704) 787-0293 - now that we have made our lives in NC.
I see Suarez name in Charlotte and wonder if it's any of the brothers that remained in the area....
Russ Meyer
January 24, 2011
Tony Suarez was one of the first heroes I ever had. As an 8-year old boy, I even got down to the sidelines on occasion. Tony was the one who took the most time and treated me like a friend. I'll never forget his kindness.
Alexis Anderson
September 28, 2010
Tony, You are missed. I want to light a candle for you. Alexis
Gavin Dyer
October 5, 2009
I never knew you, but have learnt about you from your coach at Carolina - Rod Marsh - he says you had the fairytale dream start to your soccer career...
Ana Suarez Fleming
April 18, 2008
Tony,
Its been one year today and I still can't believe you are not with us anymore. I've tried hard to understand and I know I never will, but I keep trying because I love you. I want you to know that you never dissappointed me, you only made me stronger and more competitive. I will never forget watching you play soccer and how you would blow by every defender. You were the best...I wanted to be like you. I'm sure I never got there, but it was fun trying. Our Dolphins and Hurricanes were awful this year, hopefully you can work something out so they won't be losers this season. I miss the fun times and I miss you...you will always be in my heart big brother. I love you.
Van ONeill
March 18, 2008
Marianne,
CJ & I just heard of Tony's passing today. We are very sad that he's no longer with us. We knew Tony for many years, and have not only enjoyed watching him play soccer, but playing with him. We will miss Tony.
Alexis Anderson
February 2, 2008
Please accept my heartfelt sympathies for your loss.
I am deeply saddened that Tony has passed. The memory of Tony will always be in my heart. He was a special friend to me and truly a special person. I have memories and letters that I will always keep. May peace be upon his soul+
David Powell
September 30, 2007
It is with a sense of loss that I read of Tony's passing. Though it was over 30 years ago, high school forms such bonds and memories that are tough to forget. Tony led a very talented Myers Park soccer team against a strong South Meck team who included his brother Miguel, Smack, Byrd, myself and others in one of the greatest soccer games played that year. From the time we played together and against each other, Tony was a soccer legend in Charlotte.
Mark Johnson
September 24, 2007
I just read in the Appalachian Alumni magazine of Tony's death. I would like to echo Ken Schmalenberger's comments regarding Tony. Schmack, Tony, and I were freshman soccer players at ASU and it was evident early on that Tony had great athletic ability. I moved to Charlotte and had the pleasure of watching Tony play for the Carolina Lightnin'. That was an electric time as the Lightnin' brought home the championship. There was not a seat to be had in Memorial Stadium. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Suarez family.
Carolyn (Mullally) Minix
August 21, 2007
My deepist sympathy to the Suarez Family. I have just learned of Tony's passing. However, I will always have many fond memories of Tony while at the Abbey.
Marty Grueber
June 14, 2007
I worked with Tony for a short time many years ago in Charlotte. Moved away several years ago and as you can tell have not maintained contact. This news is so sad. I'm sorry to the family and friends for your loss. We had some great times working together. I'll always remember Tony as smiling and happy.
Suzanne McLean
May 28, 2007
You are in my thoughts and prayers. Tony will be sadly missed.
Suzanne McLean
Ken Schmalenberger and Family
May 15, 2007
Dear Suarez Family: I am so sorry for your loss. Even though I have not seen Tony in a long time, I will never forget playing soccer with Miguel at South Meck HS against Tony at Myer's Park HS in Charlotte. I also played soccer for App State with Tony my freshman year. We were not only team mates, but good friends. Those were great times. Years have passed since then, but the memories will never pass. Tony called me by my nickname"Smacker". It is ironic that Tony was selling boats on Lake Norman and I am selling boats at my marina in Deltaville VA. My sincerest sympathies are extended to the entire Suarez family and you all are in my thoughts and prayers.
brother n law
April 30, 2007
We had some great times together,you will be missed but not forgotten
ELIZABETH ROSE
April 25, 2007
TONY YOU WILL BE IN MY HEART FOREVER AND I WILL NEVER FORGET THE STEAK WE SHARED AND THE FOOTBALL GAMES YOU WILL BE MISSED VERY MUCH I LOVE YOU. We will all look over Marianne, Capy, and Autumn.
YOU ARE MY HERO I WILL NEVER FORGET YOU
I LOVE YOU.
Louis Rose
April 25, 2007
You where like my older brother who I could do stuff with. We will miss you at the Panther games and parties. I love you and we will take care of mare, capy, and autumn.
Bye tony
Wendy Bezek
April 25, 2007
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I did not know Tony; however, Eileen and I went to App together. Your family is in my prayers.
Pat Bisese
April 25, 2007
The Suarez Family,
Tony and I had many a good time together, staying at your place on the Lake, roommates while at the Abbey...I am very sorry for the loss. He is missed.
Bill Kelly
April 25, 2007
Tony was a bright light in any room and on any playing field he entered-- I am very sorry to hear of his passing, and our prayers go out to his family.
Anne (Cowell) Felber
April 25, 2007
Ana & Family,
I'm Sorry does not even begin to convey the way I feel for what you are going through. Know that I am thinking of you and hoping you can cherish the memories and find some happiness in those memories. Love you and Miss you!!
Anne
Donna Drennon Gibson
April 25, 2007
We will pray for healing, peace, strength, & comfort for all of the Suarez family. Tony & I were friends at Appalachian State. I have fond memories of Tony, and of watching him play soccer at App. We will see him again one day! Find comfort in His word.
With deepest sympathy,
Donna(DD)& family
Mike Umphlett
April 25, 2007
Tony
The years have passed by so fast since our days from Fish Fare Soccer Club. It seems like yesterday watching you, Ferd, and Carlos from my GK's area doing magical things on the playing field. The magic never ends; your life is just beginning in the world we all aspire to be in. I will always remember your smile and your competative nature most. Thanks for being a friend and God Bless you and your family. Mike Umphlet and Family
Eric Jones
April 24, 2007
Tony, I enjoyed the times spent with the family, I know the family and I will miss you. We will all look over Marianne, Capy, and Autumn.
Jimmy O'Boyle
April 24, 2007
Bro Tony,
It's tough when we never get to say thanks or our goodbyes. So, thanks for all the mentoring when we played together with Fish Fare. I never possessed the quality that most of you had but you always made me welcome and had positive advise.. We had lots in common as we were both from large families and enjoyed the gift of speed but you were so incredibly fast. I guess God was in need of a talented coach and you were called away so early.
You will be missed as you blessed many a person with your charm, your smile, and your incredible talent. Save a place for me on the bench when we meet at the big pitch in the sky. Adios and oracions mi Amigo!
Ellie Rose
April 23, 2007
As I sat with each and every one of you this past week I see why Tony was blessed. You are the people that made Tony Tony. He will be in my heart forever as in all of yours. We will get through this time with each other and Gods love. Please lean on me.
Ragan Rose
April 23, 2007
Tony,
You are my HERO. You have showed me how to have fun and how to love in many ways i thought were impossible. You will be in my heart FOREVER. I love you soo much and miss you a ton. Dont worry, im taking good care of Mare and Capy, and the rest of the family for you.
Louisa Ferrera
April 23, 2007
Roberto y Miriam, my prayers are with your family during this difficult time.
Louisa Ferrera
Dave Pierce
April 23, 2007
Tony
Tony you were a good friend and teammate. Probably one of the most competitive men I have known in my career. I know you made me a better player for having been around you... a better person as well.One thing that can never be taken away are the great memories and we shared many. Goodbye for now.. my friend!
Dave
Patrick Fidelia
April 23, 2007
Our prayers are with you and the family. Tony my friend,forward partner and goal scorer. My family will miss the good times and that smile. Thank you for welcoming us to Charlotte, you fed us in your home with Dad and Mom cooking their favorites Cuban meals. You are a special friend. "Fiddle flick it on and i will chase it".
lisa moley
April 23, 2007
my thoughts and prayers go out to both the suarez family and to marianne.
Greg Sito
April 22, 2007
The Fagan Family
My families thoughts and prayers are with you and yours.
The Sito Family
Greg, Sadie, Johnny, Nikki and Joe
Greg Sito (Charlotte, NC)
Dolores Brashear
April 22, 2007
My deepest condolences to all of you upon hearing that Tony has passed. May the many memories that you hold close to your heart comfort you at this time of great loss! My prayers are for you all this day! God Bless you all!
Kevin & Charmaine Murphy
April 22, 2007
To The Entire Family of Tony Suarez:
Please accept our prayers and condolences at this time of tremendous loss. It was a fair amount time ago, but I still remember how Tony's smile and presence lit up the room. He was a good friend to us boy's from out of town(as were all of you)and an ambassador to the City of Charlotte. May the passage of time ease your sorrow and allow all those wonderful memories to over-whelm your grief.
Gerry McKeown
April 21, 2007
Dear Suarez family,
Please accept my deepest condolences at this difficult time. May you find strength and comfort from your family and friends.Tony will always be remembered as a great friend and a wonderful team-mate.
Joyce and John Chizmadia
April 21, 2007
Dear Miriam and Roberto,
We send our deepest sympathy for the loss of your son. We hold our Charlotte memories very close to our hearts. May God's love bring you comfort during this difficult time.
Judi Rutland
April 21, 2007
I have often thought of Tony over the years. I have never forgoten him or his wonderful family. I hope that Tony will find his peace and glory in heaven. I will pray for him and his family, especially his son and daughter. God Bless!
Stacey Killeen
April 21, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories of Tony bring you comfort. Please accept my deepest sympathies. I am the sister of Jo-Ellen.
Jo-Ellen Marie Oakes
April 21, 2007
Dearest Roberto & Pethucia, and all of the Suarez Brothers and Sisters.
I have forever held Tony in my heart all these years as I now hold all of you in my heart with prayer at your time of great loss and deep sorrow. I will never forget Tony. He was a gentle man who possessed a spirit that soared higher than eagles! I have many happy memories and stories from the moment we met at Belmont Abbey. I will celebrate his life as I remember him and the many happy years we all spent together. God Bless You Tony--You are deeply missed!
Lisa Bennett Kitterman
April 21, 2007
My prayers are with Suarez and Fagan families during this sad time. God bless you all while you celebrate Tony's life and grieve your loss.
Emmie Alexander
April 21, 2007
Bob and Miriam, our prayers are with you and your entire family. The Alexander family all have wonderful memories of being your neighbors many years ago. Our love to all of you.
Emmie Alexander
Lex Alexander
Frank Alexander
Hugh Alexander
Jane Alexander
Bill Soussi
April 21, 2007
Words seem so useless at a time like this, but I had to let you know how much I care and how much I hurt with you. I remember his beaming smile at every soccer game. Now we can bask in the rainbow of his memories that we'll nurture in the years ahead. I shall never forget his enthusiastic wins of soccer championships. May God bless and forgive him.
Steve Horne
April 21, 2007
I have many great memories from our days with Carolina Lightnin'. No one can forget the crowd noises & excitement at Memorial Stadium in the early 1980's when Tony touched the ball - fast as Lightnin'! Your family is in my thoughts & prayers.
Beth Overman Terry
April 21, 2007
My thoughts are with you all during this difficult time. I have many happy memories from the Hermitage Ct days.
Kathy Vinson
April 21, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. I was deeply saddened to hear about your loss. I have fond memories of Tony, and his brother, Miguel, at the Abbey. Many of us Abbey alum also rooted tirelessly for Tony throughout his college and pro soccer career. You have my deepest sympathies.
Gail and Harry Grim
April 21, 2007
Petucha and Roberto - YOu are in our hearts and prayers. Our Mass tonight will be offered for Tony. We can't get home for the funeral. Love, Harry and Gail
David Isley
April 21, 2007
God Bless this entire family in this difficult time.
June Stilwell
April 20, 2007
So very sorry. Remember all the good times from so long ago! God bless you and be with you all. Love, June
Michelle Falcone French
April 20, 2007
To the Suarez family,
You are in our thoughts and prayers. May God bless you and comfort you.
Jean and Julio Suarez
April 20, 2007
To my godparents Tia Pitucha and Tio Roberto,
Regretfully Jean and I are not able to be with you during this difficult time but please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers, May you find peace and strength and may God bless you and comfort you. May Tony's family find comfort and peace.
With love,
Michelle Suriano
April 20, 2007
I am so very sorry for your loss. I will keep the entire family in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless You through this difficult time. Michelle(formerly Mazoyer)
Cookie Carney
April 20, 2007
So many wonderful memories I will cherish of Tony and the Suarez family. May God give you the comfort and strength you need to carry on.
Seanta Clark
April 20, 2007
To The Suarez and Fagan Families,
May God protect and support you during this time of grief and sorrow. Continue to remember that God has added Tony as a beautiful flower in his everlasting garden.
In Sympathy,
Dr. Seanta Clark and Mrs. Daier Clark
Jenna Latimer
April 20, 2007
My deepest sympathies to Marianne and her family at this time.
Rhonda Miller
April 20, 2007
We have all lost a dear friend in Tony, whose smile and wonderful sense of humor will never be forgotten. I will forever miss the sunshine that he brought into a room.
The Rose Family
April 20, 2007
Tony we love you! you were a great uncle,brother-in-law, and friend We have lots of Joyful memorys that we will hold in our hearts forever and ever and ever you will always be in our hearts Love Ya so much Tony You showed us that you loved us in ever possible way Love you alot
Brandon Harris
April 20, 2007
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Deva Chirico
April 20, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Tony always had a smile that would light up the room. He was like a brother who would pick at you and could always make you laugh.
Warren Graves
April 20, 2007
We are so deeply sorry for your loss, He showed such kindness to Me.
Warren & Barbara Graves
crystell jones
April 20, 2007
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Charlie, Loraine & Lainie Tellis
April 20, 2007
Dear Marianne,
Our thoughts and prayers goes out to you and the family during this sad and difficult time.
Hold onto the good memories of the past to carry you through.
John Hanrahan
April 20, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with the Suarez family. There are many great memories from the old Abbey rugby team and great times at the lake. Tony touched many people and will be missed.
Charles (Bo) Parham & Family
April 20, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of Tony's family. It has been a long time since I have been in touch with Tony but he has always held a special place in my heart. I will always remember the good times celebrated with him from our first days at Appalachian forward. I am so sorry for the family. May God give you comfort during this time of loss.
Charlie Parker
April 20, 2007
Deepest Sympathy To all Family.
Tony and The Lightin brought This City Its First Professional Sports Team and Star.
Mary Frances Rose
April 20, 2007
Tony I miss you so much you My thougths and prayers are with you, Mare,Capy,Autumn, and your whole family. I miss you more and more every single day you were the best Uncle ever I love you
Mary Toth Coffey
April 20, 2007
I had the opportunity to work with Tony years ago. My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Brian & Donna Wallace & Family
April 20, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Chris & Melissa Wright
April 20, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with your entire family. Tony will be remembered as a wonderful neighbor and friend, he will be missed.
Tony Huskey
April 20, 2007
With deepest sympathy for your family's loss on behalf of the folks at DHL Express in Wilmington, NC.
Tom Blackwood
April 20, 2007
I have lost one of the best friends I ever had, and one of the funniest people I have ever known. And we have all lost a person who made the world a brighter, happier place. I will miss him forever.
Tina Mirtsching and family
April 20, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Brian Edmonson
April 20, 2007
Your family will be in our prayers.
The Edmonsons
Randy Carriker
April 20, 2007
Our prayers go out for your family. Tony was a good guy. I have fond memories of playing soccer with Tony, although I much prefer the one's where we were on the same team versus the ones where I was chasing after him as he sped away, hair flying in the air.
God bless your family.
Randy & Sharon Carriker
Ryan Morris
April 20, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you; Marrianne and kids, Carlos and Tommy. In life we come across special people that touch our hearts and Tony was one of those people. He is a great guy and will never be forgotten. Until we meet again my friend...Ryan
(I will be cheering on our beloved Miami Hurricanes throughout the seasons!!)
Colleen Bowers
April 20, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with your whole family.
Love,
Colleen Bowers
Sharon Sloan
April 20, 2007
We are hugely sorry for your loss. Tony was such a great friend to us. Marshall and he referred to each other as "homey". I remember that voice on the answering machine so many times over the years saying "homey - what's up, pick up the phone". Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Sharon & Marshall Sloan
Ryan Morris
April 20, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you; Marianne and kids, Carlos and Tommy. In life you come across special people that can touch your heart, and to me that was Tony. He is a great person who will never be forgotten. Until we meet again my friend.... Ryan
(I will be cheering on our beloved Miami Hurricanes for both of us thoughout the seasons!!)
Greg Sito
April 20, 2007
The Suarez Family
Accept our heartfelt sympathy for your loss. My families thoughts and prayers are with you and yours.
The Sito Family
Greg, Sadie, Johnny, Nikki and Joe
BRIAN & DONNA WALLACE & FAMILY
April 20, 2007
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
David and Sonya Ledford
April 20, 2007
Tony will be missed . The family is in our prayers.
Deb & David Park
April 20, 2007
Our thoughts ane prayers are with you. We remember Tony's laugh as he enjoyed being with neighbors on our roof. The community will miss him.
kim webb
April 20, 2007
your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Stephen webb and family
Jorge Suarez
April 19, 2007
Tia Pethuchia y Tio Roberto:
I am so very sorry for your terrible loss. I don't know how I can possibly express my sympathy for you and the entire family. Tony overcame so many obstacles and challenges over the years and I was very proud of him as my cousin. We have a strong family and we are here to support and help you with this tragedy.
May God bless and comfort you.
Love,
Jorge
John Bowling
April 19, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with your entire family...
Hailey Siplon
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