Search by Name
Search by Name
Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Fire kills St. Thomas University art professor and beloved Catholic...
By Herald staff reports
Fire kills St. Thomas University art professor and beloved Catholic priest in his Fort Lauderdale home
A St. Thomas University art professor and popular priest at Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic Church in Miami Lakes died in a fire at his Fort Lauderdale home Tuesday night after trying to extinguish the blaze with a garden hose.
Jorge Angel Sardinas, 53, was transported to Broward General Medical Center's emergency room, where a doctor pronounced him dead.
Sardinas' dog also died of smoke inhalation inside the house at 3221 S.W. 20 Court, according to fire officials.
Sardinas' house still had hurricane shutters on it, which allowed the heat and smoke inside the house to grow like an oven, fire officials said.
The fire started in the bedroom. Witnesses said Sardinas came outside to pick up a garden hose, and went back inside to put out the flames. But he was overcome by intense heat and smoke.
''It looks like the bedroom flashed and burned him,'' Acting Division Chief John Ramirez said.
Sardinas then went into cardiac arrest. Neighbors called the fire department around 10:30 p.m. Sardinas apparently never called the fire department.
When firefighters went inside the home, they found Sardinas near the bedroom with the garden hose running. He had burns on his chest, face and part of his back. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Fire officials warned residents not to try to fight fires on their own.
"A garden hose is no match for a raging fire," Battalion Chief Chris Weir said. "We have the equipment. And we are trained to do it."
A mass honoring Sardinas took place at 12:05 p.m. today in the Chapel of St. Anthony at the university, 16401 N.W. 37th Avenue in Miami Gardens.
Sardinas used his artistic skills to design the chapel, said Kathleen Lowe a university spokeswoman.
"St. Thomas University has suffered a tremendous loss with the passing of our beloved art professor," Lowe said.
News of Sardinas' passing shocked parishioners at Our Lady of the Lakes. Emily Borras, 25, who has attended the church since she was in elementary school, couldn't believe her favorite priest was gone.
"He will be greatly missed, and his absence will be felt throughout the church," Borras said.
She and her mother, also a parishioner at the church, had discussed taking a bible class with him because he was so knowledgeable and engaging in his sermons.
"He always knew the history behind the readings," said Borras, an international marketing strategist at Motorola. "I learned a lot from listening to him at church.
"He made you reflect on the passages and on your life."
A wake will take place in the chapel from 5-10 p.m. Thursday, with a prayer service at 7 p.m.
A Mass of Resurrection will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Friday at Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic Church, 15801 N.W. 67th Avenue in Miami Lakes.
Sardinas' survivors include cousins Sarah Saborido, Luis Arrizurieta, Sylvia Roepke, all of South Florida; his brother, Alfredo of the Dominican Republic; and many nieces and nephews.
Donations may be made in lieu of flowers to: The Father Jorge Sardinas Memorial Fund for St. Anthony Chapel, St. Thomas University, 16401 N.W. 37th Avenue, Miami Gardens 33054 or to Our Lady of the Lakes Art Docent Program, 15801 N.W. 67th Ave., Miami Lakes, 33014.
A video interview of Sardinas on his design of the Chapel of St. Anthony is available at www.miamiarch.org.
146 Entries
Jorge que dolor me da saber que te nos adelantaste a la casa De Dios, fuiste mi amigo, cuando trabajamos juntos en los Peoples Bank, cuando te ordenaste de sacerdote bautizaste a mi hijo Víctor en una ceremonia preciosa, fuiste un Ángel querido amigo, y Dios te llevo muy junto a Él.
Alícia Fernández
February 19, 2019
Jorge,you were my spiritual guide and a good friend. Loved your masses and was proud to have known you. You are well missed but your guidance and wise words have helped me be a better man and Christian. God bless.
Adolfo Bassart
October 10, 2015
Jorge,
You are now in what will also be our final destination. I pray for you and also for those who have left before me. I will always be very proud of you because you spread the word of God in a language that could be easily understood and would help and inspire others. May God Bless you Always. I have many fond memories of you.
Love,
Your cousin,
María
Maria del Carmen Sardinas
February 12, 2013
Father Sardinas married my husband and I at St Francis in Miami Beach when he was very young. I remember him telling me he loved music and we gave him the latest version of George Bensons album as a gift, which he was very grateful for. A wonderful person to see leave us so soon. may you rest in Peace.
Ana (Solano) Rosende
February 11, 2013
Father Jorge,
I have not recognized a Father/Priest since your presence in my life, nor an entire mass. I used to say it's because I married a Jewish guy from Barry University...The truth is, once we moved to Atlanta, for my future~husband to do a residency, I no longer heard what I needed to hear...or so I felt...I didn't have to hear you to see you or see you to hear you, or either to feel what it was you were allowing to come through you to me and others, through your gifts of openness, unwavering listening, and consistently connecting with all that came to you, as you felt, but were not sure,"When spirits are meant to meet, than I am not one to deny what God has shared with me."
I'm many years away from St. Thomas...I have taught, and I am going back again this year. I looked you up, and I found that you were no longer in what "we" call the human form.
Beyond this form and through many years, as I graduated, when you were p/t at the school and at Our Lady...in 1993...Forgive me for not keeping in touch with you and bidding farewell...
"Everything happens as God has planned." : ) You asked me one day, after a poem(prayer) was published in the Driftwood, what else has I written, did I paint, did I dream and when/if I did these things, WHEN?
I laughed and said yes, to all, that's why I wanted to be an elementary school teacher so that could do all of that through the arts to connect us all. You asked me why I laughed, and I told you noone's ever asked me when I wrote, painted, sang, played piano.
Your reply will stay with me always, as I'm going through a time of "questioning" myself and what it is that I may give and be happy. You told me that when I stopped hiding my gifts, that I could stop fighting what God's intentions were for me, and that it was only my fears that kept me from hiding "who I was".
You were/are right...I'm tired of battling at 41 years old...I am a teacher...who connects with my students as you did myself and countless others. You not only did it through your sermons(writing) and speaking(teaching) but connecting others through the arts...
I never got it...Until I looked for you and saw what others had written...
I am very fortunate to have heard you, and to connect to you...I'm grateful for the gifts I have and I'm not afraid...I have you within, as the Spirit of God is within...There enlies only Trust and Faith, to follow...
Thanks for that chat, sitting in front of the Law Library, as it was then, on a cement bench, with your Birkenstocks and your shorts, sitting Criss-Cross, Applesauce~and I the same toward you...
As we talked about GIFTS and GOD...
May God be with your family~before them as to guide them, behind them as to push them, on either side to keep them moving forward, underneath, as to not allow to fall, and above them, to allow them to reach up and out for God's help and love.
All my devotion,
Autumn Notariano~Frenchman
St. Thomas University, Fall '1993
A Morning Prayer
God,
Guide me in the direction
Of happiness and righteousness.
It won't matter if I'm alone-
I have YOU.
All I need is to wake up
Proud of myself each morning-
Loving myself and loving YOU.
Knowing that I am pleasing You
Makes my life deservingly
Successful and content.
Guide my loyalty
So that the products of my work
Will be everlasting in love.
Autumn Notariano~Frenchman
June 4, 2011
As I sit here making up the scrapbook for the history of St. Richard Parish that the Archbishop asked us all to do for the 50th Anniversary of the Archdiocese, I started to reflect on you as our Associate Pastor. Your part in our history. The joy and inspiration you brought to us. You truly wanted us to be walking in Jesus' footsteps, and was showing us the way.
I remember sitting in the rectory living room under one of your wonderous paintings filled with a palate of fabulous colors
- giving my confession!
Nor, will I ever forget your homily that included your trip to the beach. What fun and so human.
They say that the good die young. No, God had other plans for you. There is so much work to be done. We have not forgotten you, and I know that you are looking out for all of us. Thanks.. Janice 2008
Janice McKay
April 7, 2008
PLease contact me in regards to Father Jorge Angel Sardinas
772-780-4884
Laura Pennington -Bibby-Carrillo
December 24, 2007
For every painting I begin, I can't help but think of you coaching me to not be afraid of expressing myself, and telling me, "you can never use enough paint" to complete your thought. You have left an everlasting impression.
glody
Glodyian Hammett
April 20, 2007
I hear how wonderful this man really is. Though I never meet him, I date his cousin.He is greatly missed and still loved by all.
Victoria Miner
February 22, 2007
Father George you was a wonderful man, I enjoyed your Sundays Masses,you brought me throught ruff times,and I got throught it fine.
thank You Father George.
Bridget Gadaleta
January 15, 2007
Father George, You will be greatly missed by so many. I thank God my family was allowed to be a small part of your short but powerful life. You are thought of every day. Your Painting hangs with great honor in my house. You were so Loved.
Bonnie Rendo
January 15, 2007
Scott Chamberland
January 12, 2007
It's been two years since your passing, but you will never be forgotten... Father Sardinas. God bless you always.
Eddie Hernandez
September 24, 2006
Father Sardinas brought our family together and helped us through our roughest times. We were married by Father Sardinas and recall the Homily like it was yesterday. While at the mall, he seen an elderly couple walking in front of him, they were holding hands. They sat on a bench, still holding hands, and kissed each other. He said that this reminded him of us because without a doubt, he knew we would be together for eternity. We are sadden for everyone’s lost, but are joyful for knowing that Father Sardinas will always be watching over us. God be with you.
Tom and Isabel Fitzgerald
April 14, 2006
Jorge and I were in grad school together at UF and I was trying to find his most recent contact info when I came across this. He was a wonderful fellow - very talents, alot of fun and full of life. He will be missed.
Valerie Dibble
December 21, 2005
So many memories. He had been a friend of our family for years... long before I was born. I remember going to some of his art galleries and being so inspired. If it wasn't for him, I'd probably never know about, let alone want to do, anything of the arts. I'm a musician... and my next album is dedicated to the loving memory of this great man. I know he's watching over his thousands of friends and making sure we are all safe. We love you, Father Jorge!!
Daniel Rendo
July 27, 2005
How sad to have just learned of Father Jorge's passing. Rarely does a human being posses the gift to touch so many and positively affect our lives. Just days ago I told my wife I was anticipating returning to Miami for Christmas in hopes of hearing/seeing Father Jorge. We carry his memory in our hearts.
Carlos Vecino
October 13, 2004
An example of what it means to be a great priest. He will surely be a loss to the Miami ArchDiocese and to the world of ART May he rest in peace.
Msgr Michael Flanagan
October 4, 2004
I will miss you father sardinas and I will always remember you.
Carline Estime
September 30, 2004
Father Sardinas:
You will be missed by many and I know I will miss you alot. You were the one who made me smile in great days and also in tough days. You were a great teacher and friend. I will always remember you and never forget what a great person you were. May God keep you in his glory.
Jessika Mendez
September 29, 2004
Espero que estes viviendo en tu reino
Javier Fuentes
September 29, 2004
We are so sad to learn of Father Jorge's death. He gave us the understanding of how so many people would travel from afar to listen to Jesus. We learned so much from his homilies and expect that his smile lights up heaven now.
Mary Lou Sauter
September 27, 2004
god needed an angel and he took mr.sardinas.People come to this world with a mission i'm sure mr.sardinas touch some lifes and made a difference.
denisse brizo
September 26, 2004
It is so sad to lose someone. May your family have peace. Isaiah 25:8
James Watson
September 26, 2004
You are an angel in heaven Father Jorge and I am so very thankful to have met you and listened to your beautiful homilies during your time at Saint Richard's Church. My thoughts and prayers are with your family, friends, and students.
Leanne Smith
September 23, 2004
Father Jorge,
How shocked I was to watch the morning news and hear your name. How saddened I was to realize it was you they were talking about. Ken, Scott and I have so many memories of you and our time together at Saint Helen. The laughter, the dancing, your spiritual strength when my brother died, your friendship and guidance. Over the past few years we drifted away - but Ken so enjoyed your most recent talks. Now you are with God - hopefully watching over your flock of friends and family left behind. You are always in our hearts.
Ken, Teri and Scott Jarry.
Teri Jarry
September 22, 2004
Fr. Sardinas was a wonderful human being. He was full of life and passion. He taught his classes with experience,profound knowledge, and great appreciation for the arts. He taught me to see the world through the eye of an artisit and find beauty in eveything around us. He will always be remembered and he is greatly missed!!!! Class just isn't the same anymore!!!!
Vanessa Alonso
September 22, 2004
It is with a very heavy heart to bid farewell to Father Jorge, he will be so deeply missed. father Jorge was my priest for many years at St Helen. He performed my marriage, even attending the reception. He could really cut a rug.
How we will miss his up beat sperit, a truly one of a kind unique person. A great loss to all who knew him.
Barbara & Joseph Da Costa
September 21, 2004
He has touched many lives, those in which will greatly miss him. May the family and friends gain comfort from the Scriptures he was so well versed in. I know he would want everyone to remember John 17:3 where it says this means everlasting life their taking in knowledge of you the only true God and of the one whom you sent for Jesus Christ. He will not be forgotten.
Sincerely,
LaiOni
September 21, 2004
We have lossed a wonderful priest a great artist and a good firend. I will miss loaning him my vido's
May you rest in the arms of Jesus
Barbara
Barbara Jennings
September 20, 2004
Jorge, I will miss you and keep you in my prayers. You will be my new angel of canasta, (we used to play every night in a friend's house with his mother Sara and others... We had fun dancing in my 25th wedding anniversary, i thank you again for having known you and kept your friendship for more than 40 yrs...it has been my priviledge.
Lourdes Sosa Acosta
September 20, 2004
You will always be in our hearts.
gabriela balandrano
September 20, 2004
Father Jorge,
Thanks for giving so much of yourself. We always looked forward to hearing your sermons at Our Lady of the Lakes, although we never knew when you would be there, we were always pleasantly surprised when we saw you walk down the aisle, with your spikey hair and sandals. Thank you also for giving so much to the Women's Emmaus team. We learned to be better Catholics and to understand scripture because of you. God Bless you Father, we will miss you dearly.
Ana Aeschleman
September 20, 2004
I will miss Father Sardinas as a great priest, great artist, and a wonderful teacher. I took a class with him this summer, and realized the wonderful person he is. He is still alive, in the Chapel of St. Anthony that has his signature everywhere. I will remember his excitement, artistic passionate nature, and his Love for God! May He Rest in Peace...
John Alexander
September 20, 2004
Fr. Jorge, Thanks for being loud, being honest, being passionate and being so incredibly COOL! What you said always meant so much more because you felt it so passionately, so humanly, and in such a direct and uncensored way. I pray that you are not lonely any more and that you have the angel wings you need to soar where your humanly body did not allow you to go. Watch over us and keep us full of hope and passion for our faith. Everyone who heard your words and experienced your devotion loved you. What an extraordinary gift you have given us. Stay outside the box in heaven and shake things up a bit.
Ameli Padron-Fragetta
September 19, 2004
I remember Fr. Sardinas was the first person I met at St. Thomas. Later that day I realized I would be taking an art class with him. He loved art and he loved teaching people about his passion. Which made it that much special.
I remember some mornings I would see him walking his dog on campus. I can never wave to him in the morning as he walked his dog or when he would pass me by the library entrance.
I didn't know him personally but I did know his passion. Which is, I think, what he was all about.
What happened that night happened for a reason, it's not for us to know why. Just to accept and remember him now and forever. His legacy will live on in all the people he touched in his 53 years on this earth!
Melissa Saavedra
September 19, 2004
Fr Sardinas was a wonderful person and will be greatly missed by our community
Patricia Freiwald
September 19, 2004
Father Sardiñas, I didn't have the fortune of knowing you, but for what I have read about you I just can thank God for sending angels like you to the Earth. Well, now you are in Heaven. Rest in peace and God bless you forever and ever.
Alexandra Rossi
September 19, 2004
No words can express the emptiness you have left in our hearts. I will always remember your classes and masses, and whenever I look at that drawing I thought I couldn’t do but I finally did with your help, I will remember you and will know that as time passes by I will be a little closer to see you again.
Luis Rodas
September 19, 2004
Father,one of the last things I said to you was that when I got married, I was to fly you where ever the wedding was going to be...you will be missed. You showed me how art can let your soul be free. I am a better artist because of you. Rest in Peace
Cynthia Montoya
September 19, 2004
Father Sardinas,
You have truly touched the lives of each and every member of our school and parish family. We are so very greatful for the time we had with you.
You will be forever in our hearts,
Samantha and Amanda Alvarez
Samantha & Amanda Alvarez
September 19, 2004
Fater Jorge,
You were the best person I have ever known. I want you to know that im makeing a documentary about you and your lifes work. I will continue to share your work with them all.I will never forget you.
your New York Italian Buddy.
Tobias Masciatti
Tobias Masciatti
September 18, 2004
My Fr Jorge rest in the peace of Christ forever. I am so sorry to hear of the tragic accident.
Fr Jorge was a joyful, peaceful presence at the parish and university when he studied in Gainesville. My sincere condolences to his family.
Lynn laBauve
September 18, 2004
This is a very painfull moment for me, I just moved out from Miami last Tuesday and I had the privilege of been on his last mass at Our Lady of the Lakes last Sunday, he's still alive for me in my heart for ever.
WALTER ROMERO
September 18, 2004
We will miss Father, his sense of humor and great talent which drew so many towards him. Condolences
Mr. & Mrs. Peter Powers and Family
Anne Powers
September 18, 2004
He was an excellent priest, full of life, joy, and inspiration. May God bless Father Jorge and keep him in His care.
Jennifer Merlin
September 18, 2004
our condolances
Dave & Deb Schopieray
September 18, 2004
our condolances
Bob & Norma Brice
September 18, 2004
Dear Father Sardiñas, Jorge,
I attended many of your services while I was living in Miami. I always tried to never miss any of your masses. Even though I spoke with you only few times, those were enough to make me appreciate your unique and great personality as a priest and as an artist. I tell you, I will always have you present in my memory. Only God could have done such a great work through you, and only God could have called you in such a rush. I know God always blessed you George, but I still want to say -as a farewell: "God bless you George and thank you for your friendship and availability always"
Martin Muy Rivera
September 18, 2004
Fr. Jorge, you leave a hole in our hearts and in our parish. Even though we know you are in heaven and we are glad for that, we miss you. We will miss your honest way of sharing with us and your homilies that spoke of committment to God and living our faith in daily life. We ask you to pray for us at Our Lady of the Lakes and for all in the Christian community.
Audrey Valhuerdi
September 17, 2004
You were a joy to have at St. Richard Parish when you were assigned there. Our St. Richard Council of Catholic Women were looking forward to our planned visit with you at St. Thomas this coming March to see the chapel that you designed and to have lunch with you! You left so many happy memories with all. May you enjoy paradise, and may your blessings reach down to us below. All your talents will be missed. You were so blessed by God. Sincerely, Phyllis E. Casey , President of St. Richard Council of Catholic Women
Phyllis Casey
September 17, 2004
Words can not express the feeling of sadness and disbelief I felt upon hearing of this tragedy. Father Sardiñas's kind, cheerful and loving aura will always remain. I will really miss him. May he rest in peace and always live in our prayers and thoughts.
Cristina Muñoz
September 17, 2004
Fr. Sardinas,
Whenever I would see you on campus, I knew this would be a finer day. Crossing paths with you is as touching pieces of the sky, for you’re as a ray of sunshine that shine brightly, warming hearts and radiating good vibrations. In our passing were smiles, kind words, or amusing comments. You are an absolute delight, a caring spirit that took the time to make another happy, and a presence that made the world a better place.
Your compassion and example to take one day at a time and enjoy life’s beauty reaffirms to all of us the cause for rejoicing and being glad. (Ps 32:11).
You will be greatly missed.
Lula Emanuel
September 17, 2004
Dear Father George,
What a shock it was to read about your death. I never knew you well but was a parishioner at St. Augustine's while you were there 20 years ago. I'll never forget one time I ran into you while you were walking your dog at that time at the Univ. of Miami. I was taking a walk, so we sat down and had a nice long chat on the baseball field. I was glad to hear you found your happiness in life in completing your art studies, and becoming a professor. Your artistic design for the chapel at St. Anthony's will be an indelible legacy. I hope our paths will cross again while we are out walking again in eternity.
Sincerely,
Barbara Balogh
September 17, 2004
Fr. Sardinas your smile and presence will truely be missed. Not only in the church but at St. Thomas where you made education an experience never to be forgotten. May your spirit soar with the angels.
Marie Boule
September 17, 2004
Dear Father,
You will be deeply missed by everyone.For me, I never had a class with you, up until now during the summer.I am honored to have taken your class. Not only you taught the subject, you made it alive with passion and beauty in it. You will be an inspiration to not only me but everyone who knew you. Also, you reminded me of a spanish Robin Williams. You will be in my heart and prayers forever.
Victoria Maxwell
September 17, 2004
Father Sardinas was a rare priest. He made the sermons light-hearted and applicable to daily life. It was a joy to be in his presence. May he rest in peace.
Miriam Marquez
September 17, 2004
Father Jorge married my wife and I some 17 years ago when he was at Saint Helens. I know everyone will miss him as we missed him when he left to teach. That seemed to be his main calling I think..
Jeff Abell
September 17, 2004
I'm very sad that our father Sardina will not longer be with us, but as he was so positive in his life, I know deep in my heart that he will enjoying the rest of his eternal live with God. Father Sardina has been the best priest that I have run into for the last 46 years as far as a great communicator to spread the word of catholisim. He put it in plain terms and how life really is. I'm happy and fell proud to have had the opportunity to have share his sermons. He made a big difference in me and in my family.
Luis Rodriguez
September 17, 2004
you were one in a million, the est priest at Our Lady of the Lakes...may the angels lead you home
September 17, 2004
It was with deep sorrow that I first saw about the tragic loss of FR. Sardinas. My husband Charlie and I spent 19 years at Our Lady of the Lakes, and Charlie loved the homilies of both FR Sardinas & FR Murphy. FR Sardinas always had a moment to spend with us and all the parishiners who clamored to see him after Mass. We fully intended to continue to visit often, but Charlie became seriously ill a few months after we moved to Pembroke Pines. May Father Sardinas rest in peace. He will be deeply missed by all. With Love in Christ, Jean & Charles Hayek
Jean Hayek
September 16, 2004
Dear Father Sardiñas,
I will miss you VERY much you were the BEST priest ever and i will always remember you as that! I always remember you saying that the Palmetto was the Pulgatory and i'll never forget that!! You not only inspired people by your beautiful words but by your beautiful art!! I will NEVER forget you!! I MISS YOU ALWAYS!! The church will be sad without your good jokes we will all miss that!! YOU ARE THE BEST!!!!!
Andrea Barroso
September 16, 2004
Father, May God have you standing next to him. You will be missed very much.eventhough, I hardly spoke to you; but,I allways listened to what you had to say in church. I will never forget the joke about the purgatory.
Your friend forever.
Jose A. Barroso
Jose Barroso
September 16, 2004
To the Memory of Fr. Sardinas, a great priest and wonderful person:
Through his extraordinary sense of humor and character, he projected in his sermons his love for art and life. He was able to confort and talk about faith in simple words, without losing perspective of the reality of life.
Our family will really miss him always. We pray for his eternal peace in the presence of God.
Our most sincere condolences to the Sardina family.
Jorge E. Garcia and family.
Jorge E. Garcia
September 16, 2004
Rev. Sardinas will be missed very much. Even though I am now in the midwest I want to send my condolences to all those who were close to him and those that are at STU. God Bless him and STU
Lauren Rodas
September 16, 2004
Padre Sardinas,
Thanks so much for the beautiful wedding you performed for us on December 30th, 1995 at St. Richards Catholic Church in Miami, Florida. December is a celebration of birth, a years ending, and a new beginning. We have been trying to have a child since our wedding and finally Deysi is pregnant. We are blessed. I have written the following poem for you and those morning your loss.
............................ ................................... ............
“In love our spirits are one”
................................. ................................... .......
Your parting has created emptiness and sorrow,
With love can be seen tomorrow,
Our life, only to borrow.
His creation here on earth,
A beginning, his love at birth,
In fellowship is measured our worth.
When the day is finished and done,
In sacrifice he gave his son,
Through death he has risen and won.
The journey has only begun,
A beginning an end, an end to none,
In love our spirits are one.
............................. ................................... ..........
M.S.B 2004-09-16
....................... ................................... ................
Michael & Deysi Brice
September 16, 2004
Nancy C. Figueroa
September 16, 2004
Dear Rev. Sardinias,
You will be missed terribly by all those fortunate enough to have been touched by your gentle joy, your loving heart, and your incredible inspiration, not only as a priest, but also as a friend.
Reece Darham
September 16, 2004
Father Sardinas,
I would first like to say "step away from the painting", as were your last words to me on the morning of your departure. That semester I took art with you was one of the best points in my life. You inspired me more than you could ever imagine. The inner solace I walked away with has been the thing that has helped me through many tough times in my life. You unleashed a part of me that I will forever be grateful for, and I thank you with all my heart and soul.
I would also like to say that I hope your journey to the outer world was a good one, I am sure it is beautiful there. May you find peace and comfort within your soul the way you did here.
I am certain that in the passing time until your next given task you will paint us a lot of butterflies and sunsets. For there is no way the love that so powerfully radiates from your soul could just disappear like that.
Take care for now; I look forward to meeting up again.
Your forever friend,
Brenda Hixson(St.Thomas University)
Brenda Hixson
September 16, 2004
Rest in peace father, rest in peace.
Gagan Bajaj
September 16, 2004
Dear,
Father Jorge Sardinas,
Perhaps I was your student in two occaccions, most recently as last semester, I still have to pick the frames you grade, I still remember how you always made the class so cool to be in, and I never forget not only the quality of your class, but the quality of your heart, you taugh me many lessons,but there is one lesson that always be there.All humans deserve a second chance. You'll always be miss, thank you and may God have you with him to decorate or pain the walls of heaven.
Isiuryh Rodriguez
September 16, 2004
You will be greatly missed. Your words were always a comfort and your sermons at mass came across in a way that I could feel it, understand it and apply it. I wish you didn't have to go....you were a scource of strength to our community and will be missed.May you rest in peace and rejoice for all eternity in heaven in the prescence of our father.
Luis Vasquez
September 16, 2004
The ST. THOMAS community is very small so it is easy to share griefs and joys. Thank you for being passionate about art, being a part of our small family, and not expecting anything in return. You are truly selfless.
Royce Brent Bishop, 3L, class of 2005
Royce Bishop
September 16, 2004
Father Sardinas, I was crushed to hear of the horrible tragiedy. I knew you from St. Richards, with Julie and Jan I sang with them. I'm now away from home and wish i could attend the services but I'm glad you are watching over your people, we love you. I love you. ~mayra kucera
Mayra Kucera
September 16, 2004
Father Jorge,
I will always remember you by your down-to-earth style of preaching the good news. And your picture you kept in your wallet of your dog, after showing you my kids pictures in mine. I will see you in heaven, thanks to your part in converting me to Catholicism. I look forward to continuing my gift of art through your vision. My prayers and heart go out to your family, friends, students,and parishioners...you are SO missed.
Laurie Tyburski
September 16, 2004
My sincere & heartfelt condolences to Father Sardinas' family. I am so sad at hearing the news, I knew Father Sardinas from St. Richard's and my family & I have wonderful memories of him. My prayers & thoughts are with everyone there in Florida.
Liz Parks
September 16, 2004
Jorge,
No need to introduce myself to you. Thank you for your friendship that neither time nor space can seperate. As you continue your journey, I only hope we come into contact with one another and recognize it as such. You are missed by many, including me.
stephen l
September 16, 2004
May he rest in peace a beloveded priest, professor, and friend. He will be missed. My favorite memory of him, was being in his painting class where I got to see where his spirit really shined. The passion that he had for art drifted into my heart, and I give my all to him and his family that mourns for him. rest in peace Father Sardinas.
-Diana- #6
Diana Eguizabal
September 16, 2004
stephen lankau
September 16, 2004
Padre Jorge,
We are still reeling from the shock of your early departure, but you are in heaven, so please pray for us.
My sympathy goes to all your family members, specially Sarah Saborido, who was one of my students last year.
Isabel Gomez-Wilson
September 16, 2004
Rev. Fr. Sardinas was a great asset to the University for his artistic, cultural and educational contributions. He will always be remembered becuase his
bequethal to us remains in the beauty of his Chapel of St. Anthony.
Mary and Albert Monaco
September 16, 2004
May he rest in peace
Desiree Johnson
September 16, 2004
As a former student of Father Sardiñas it saddened my heart to learn of his sudden passing. I took him for a humanities course and it was the best experience of my life. He knew so much about art and life and opened my eyes to culture. Whenever he saw me he inquired about my future and how I was doing. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this sad time. He truly was a legacy that is not forgetten and he will live on in our hearts.
Chulani Levenstone
September 16, 2004
Dear Father,
I remember you from St. Richard Parish back after Hurricane Andrew. My children were at such an impressionable age then and LOVED to hear your homilies. Your words were so down to earth, just like you! Our condolences to your family, thanks for all the good you did for so many. Now "Little Jesus" is with his maker. God Bless you and hold you in the palm of his hand!
Sharon Zayas-Rhyce
September 16, 2004
Dear Father Sardinas I was really shocked when my mom told me you passing away will really miss you you gave the best sermons you where a great priest and very good friend i will never forget your homilies they where the best I will never forget you, Isabel Garcia (lazos de amistad)
Isabel C. Garcia
September 16, 2004
As an aspiring artist and a member of the Our Lady of the Lakes community, I am deeply saddened by the loss of one of the most inspirational people I have ever met. The passion he shared for both art and his faith touched me closer than I had ever been touched before. His sermons were always the highlights of my Sundays and I was able to connect with his open mind and his wonderful sense of humor.
Now, just starting my academic life at the University of Miami, his words, his passion, his faith and his very being continue to inspire and push me forward in my art and in my faith.
Father, your life has made all the difference in the lives of so many others, and you will live on forever in our hearts.
Rene David Basulto
September 16, 2004
Dear Fr. Jorge,
You have been such an important part of our family's life since you arrived on the scene at St. Richard Catholic Church. You buried my brother, married my sister and her husband, but most importantly, officiated at my precious Jackie's Christening. We missed you when you left to work at St. Thomas University, but knew you were doing what you loved. I hope that you will paint heaven with the same wonderful presence you had here on earth. We will always consider you one of our "Angel"s!
Bonnie Rionda
September 16, 2004
Father Sardiñas,
I will remember you as a great artist and a real person, one who could laugh and share the moment, so human. I will keep you in my heart, please keep me in yours until, hopefully, I will see you again.
Agueda Ogazon
September 16, 2004
Our heartfelt condolences go out to Father Sardinas' family and to all whom he touched. He was taken from us way too soon. His passing leaves a tremendous void in all our lives. We will always remember his stories and will miss him dearly.
May he rest in peace,
Ofe & Victor Whitaker
September 16, 2004
Jorge, will be sorly missed, he is such a man of many talents, wit, humour,
Bernard Gagnon
September 16, 2004
Such a wonderful man, just the day prior to his passing, I had the pleasure of chatting with him in the hallway. A very fond memory that will be with me all the days of my life.
Marissa Leith
September 16, 2004
Dear Fr. Sardiñas:
I met you when I started working at St. Thomas University. I always had a great respect and admiration for you because you were a great professor, wonderful artist, and especially a great person and priest.
I remember all your work and dedication during the construction of the St. Anthony Chapel at St. Thomas University. Every day when I come in to work I see you reflected on that Chapel. Everything inside the Chapel reminds me about you.
I remember that one day I received an e-mail from Ariel Gil, a former employee of St. Thomas University with an invitation to have dinner with Fr. Sardiñas to honor him for the wonderful work he did for the St. Anthony Chapel and to give him a plaque. Of course, I went to La Carreta Restaurant in Hialeah and had dinner with him and a group of people from St. Thomas. We had a wonderful time. He made us laugh and enjoy the evening with his jokes and his company. He said something that night that I will never forget:
"My dream is to go back to Cuba with freedom and democracy and have a little house in Batabano Beach."
Batabano Beach is located on the South of Havana, Cuba.
I will always remember you, Fr. Sardiñas and you will be in my prayers and my heart.
Love,
Paula Flor (Hialeah, Florida)
Paula Flor
September 16, 2004
Father Jorge: You were an "Angel" to our Family. I have known you for almost 30 years and spent many happy times with you. You married a few of our family members and baptized most of our children. You helped us bury family members and grieved along with us. You will be deeply missed. We love you. May God bless you and take care of you forever. Terry Deegan-de Caso
Terry Deegan-de Caso
September 16, 2004
Father Jorge was a wonderful addition to our family at St Richard's in Miami. He will always have a special place in my heart.
Catherine Pearson
September 16, 2004
I was his art student in 98' I still remember the when he told me..."Your an artist, don't you ever let go of that talent". Those words stuck in in my head ever since and have influenced me so much in my career. I wouldnt be doing what Im doing now if it wasn't for those words of guidance.
Thank you
Javier Colon
September 16, 2004
Father Sardinas, I first knew of you about 10 yrs ago when you started at St. Richards Parish, from the first time I heard your homily I always would call to see at what time you were saying mass. You brought me back to the church and correlated it with the world today. You had the gift on how to relate to the young and the teens your masses were the best. Also I am very blessed that you did the mass for my grandmothers funeral 8 yrs ago.You made that easier for me to accept and understand and become at peace although at times its still hard. When my mom called me today to tell me of your passing I was in disbelief and shock, felt like I was in a dream. I couldn't believe that such an awesome, loving, caring man of god would be called upon so soon. I always said the day I get married I would want you to be the father that married me, but that time in my life had not come yet. You were the best thing that happened to the St. Richards Parish and I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers and close to my heart. Also how people say that you remind us of the images of Jesus Christ, yes I had always described you like that because with your long hair and that loving and caring smile you do. May God Bless You and keep you right beside him. With love to the Greatest Priest Father Jorge A. Sardinas.
Denise Riano
September 15, 2004
I attended Mass at Our Lady of the Lakes on several occasions. In his homilies, Father Sardinas always related the Gospel to modern-day life. He was always friendly and gave a warm welcome to those who attended Mass. He will be missed very much. I am sure he is now in Heaven with Jesus, watching over us and praying for us.
Gina Selwitz
September 15, 2004
Father Jorge Sardinas touched many lives during his years as cleric and as professor. From his sermons at Our Lady of the Lakes church to his classroom at St. Thomas University, countless lives were touched and transformed by Fr. Sardinas. I find myself blessed to have been amongst those who Fr. Sardinas inspired. He will surely be missed by parishioners, like myself, who admired his awe inspiring words which were colored by that intricate humor that became his trademark. His art flowed from the classroom to the altar with such ease and assurance that you knew the man was genuine. He no doubt rests tonight in a much better place. May God have mercy on this faithful servant.
Juan Braceras
September 15, 2004
Dear, Father
You will always be remembered, I had the pleasure of knowing the extraordinary person, professor, and priest you were. You made a difference in the lives of those who knew you. You made many people smile and you encouraged many to "look forward, and never look back". Those words will always be kept in my heart and memories. You left us behind, but you will always be considered our hero.
Much love
Ana
Ana Rojas
September 15, 2004
I was shocked when I heard the news, but I can only say that you will always be in our hearts father.
I will never forget your wisdom, carisma, and your passion for the arts.....You were a great inspiration in my life and I will be forever grateful. peace be with you .You were always there for us.....
God bless you...
Eileen Rodriguez
September 15, 2004
Showing 1 - 100 of 146 results
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read more