Wilfredo Santiago

1946 - 2025

Freddy was dependable, the kind of man people trusted instinctively, the one friends and family turned to with the familiar reassurance: "Call Freddy-he'll know what to do."

Wilfredo "Freddy" Vega Santiago, 79, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 29, 2025.

Born on February 18, 1946, in Utuado, Puerto Rico, Freddy was the beloved son of María Luisa Santiago Vega Montalvo and Ramón Santiago Andújar, and the middle child in a large and loving family of ten siblings. He remained deeply proud of his Puerto Rican roots and stayed connected to the community and culture that shaped him.

Freddy married his high school sweetheart, Georgina (Garcia) Santiago, and together they raised two children, Mark Santiago and Melody Santiago Cummings, whom he wholeheartedly supported and praised. Freddy was deeply involved in the Wynwood community, serving on committees, spearheading neighborhood projects, and personally helping organize block parties, toy drives, and other efforts to improve the lives of those around him.

He was a beloved Abuelo to his granddaughters, Markeema and Brady Bird, whom he adored. Even as mobility and speech became challenging, Freddy remained fully engaged-surprising them with gifts, and delighting in every moment spent together.

Freddy lived life with curiosity, courage, and joy. He loved to travel the world, sought adventure, and relished great meals with family and friends. He worked hard but never took himself too seriously, balancing responsibility with humor, mischief, and generosity. He loved restoring antique cars, enjoyed fishing, bowling, and playing cards, where he always seemed to have a lucky hand.

Even after being diagnosed with Parkinson's, Freddy approached life with remarkable resolve, positivity, and focus on his health. He embraced wellness, and never let the disease define him.

Freddy is survived by his wife, Gina; his children, Mark and Melody; his grandchildren, Keema and Birdie; and his many brothers, sisters, extended family members, and friends. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, adventure, service, and love.

Visitation will be held on Monday, December 8, 2025, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Memorial Plan Westchester Funeral Home 9800 SW 24th Street, Miami, FL 33165.

A graveside service will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Memorial Plan at Miami Memorial Park Cemetery 6200 SW 77th Avenue, Miami, FL 33143.