Charles Dascal

DASCAL Charles, passed away on July 29 due to illness. Born in Cuba on February 16, 1932, he is the only child of the late Antonio and Clara Dascal. Charles and his wife Fanny immigrated to the US in 1961 and lived the American success story. He quickly established himself as one of Miami's foremost Cuban-American businessmen, and founded successful technology business ventures in the early stages of the mobile phone industry in the mid-60s. In 1974, Charles expanded his horizons and founded Continental Bank of Miami and Midway Ford becoming the first Cuban-American to open a bank in Miami and the first Cuban-American to be awarded a Ford franchise in the nation. A pillar of the South Florida business community, he expanded his efforts to 11 new car dealerships and 7 bank locations. Until his passing, he led the organizations as Chairman of South Motors, Vista Motors, Midway Ford and Continental Bank. Charles and his wife are devoted philanthropists, dedicating their life in support of countless local charities including the Jackson Memorial Foundation, St. Jude Children's Hospital, Miami Children's Hospital and several other national foundations. He lived his life as a true humanitarian and lover of animals, including his dogs: Luky, Leni, Maravilloso, Fantastico and Charlie. They serve as mascots of the South Motors Organization and represent his passion and contributions to the Humane Society of Greater Miami. Charles was also a vibrant supporter of the cultural arts including the Miami Art Museum and the Miami Film Festival. Charles was beloved husband to Fanny Dascal and beloved father to Jacqueline and Jonathan Chariff, Karla Dascal and Elizabeth Dascal, and grandfather of Gabriella and Alessandra Rose. Despite a lifetime of business success, his true passion was his family. He was a committed husband, a loving father, and a loyal friend. His love and loyalty to wife Fannie spanned sixty years and two countries. His children and grandchildren remain his proudest successes, treasuring every moment he spent with them. He will be dearly missed. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 31, 2013 at 2:30pm at Temple Menorah (Main Sanctuary) 620 75th Street in Miami Beach. Interment will take place immediately following at Mount Sinai Memorial Park 1125 NW 137th Street in Miami. Shiva will take place at the home of Fanny Dascal.