Rafael "Catire" Carabaño

When Rafael Carabaño walked into the room, those in his company felt energy, an enthusiastic spontaneity. This was just one example of who Catire was and how he impacted those around him. Catire was a clever and gregarious person who always sought out the finest attributes in other people. It was as if Catire wanted to share all of their experiences, revel in their lives and celebrate their discoveries. Catire was tireless and had boundless enthusiasm that would serve him well throughout his life.

He was the son of Dr. Jose Maria Carabaño and Rogelia Esteller. Catire was raised in Venezuela. Always at the ready with a good joke, he grew up to be quite a humorous person. While some who knew Catire might describe him as an idealist, his friends and family understood well that Catire was always in pursuit of life's endless possibilities and opportunities available to him.

Catire was raised with five siblings. They were, Roger, Jose Maria, Tauca, Tibisay, Poely. Catire was very accepting and supportive of his family. He was perceived as the central person in his family in terms of keeping communication open between the family members. Whenever discord or tension arose within the home, Catire was typically the member who brought about resolution and harmony. These traits served Catire well in his adult life and, along with his wit, outgoing personality, and understanding of others, drew the admiration of many who knew him.

Catire's skill at "building bridges" played an important role in his ability to make his new family happy. He was quite sensitive towards Luz Marina's needs, showing his constant concern and fondness. Catire was tenderhearted and sensitive, qualities that served him well in helping to nurture his family.

Catire was a natural and creative parent who was willing to provide his family with all sorts of new and interesting experiences. For Catire, parenting was a particularly enjoyable and pleasurable part of his life. Every activity, from chores to bedtime routines, became a game in the Carabaño home. Catire's skill at understanding his children's feelings, his sensitivity to their needs, and his gift for gentle persuasion enabled him to find novel solutions to any problem or situation that might crop up. Catire was blessed with four: Rafael Jr., Melanie, Juan Andres, and Luz Marina.

Rafael Carabaño passed away on April 26, 2012 at Hospice By The Sea. Services were held at Forest Lawn Funeral Home South.

There was always a certain style and inventiveness to Catire. He was a dynamic, self-expressive person who was forever looking to celebrate the endless possibilities life had to offer. He had a knack for being clever, creative and witty, and for others, was a joy to be around. While he was often fiercely independent, it seemed as if many others looked to Catire Carabaño for inspiration, leadership, wisdom and even courage. Catire was always more than willing to share life's experiences with his loved ones.