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Ivan Santiago Obituary
State officials have recovered the body of Ivan Santiago Sr., a 48-year-old man killed in a boating accident Friday night that also left his 7-year-old granddaughter dead, officials said.
Santiago's daughter, 8-year-old Leia Santiago, was also a passenger but survived when the 15-foot bass boat tipped over at John Stretch Park along Lake Okeechobee near the Hendry County line.
Leia Santiago was rescued last night and taken to Glades General Hospital where she was later interviewed by sheriff's deputies, Palm Beach County sheriff's spokeswoman Teri Barbera said.
She told deputies she was sitting at the front of the boat while her father allowed 7-year-old Natalie Santiago, her niece, to steer the boat, officials said. The boat made a sharp turn and Leia Santiago said she fell into the water. It's uncertain what happened then, but the boat tipped. Witnesses called 911 for help.
Deputy Kenneth Fisher found Leia Santiago treading water in the middle of a canal near an unoccupied boat. He entered the water and rescued the girl.
The sheriff's office dispatched divers to the scene at about 6:30 p.m. Friday for what was termed "a recovery operation."
A Florida Fish and Wildlife crew found the body of 7-year-old Natalie Santiago just before 2 a.m. today. Ivan Santiago's body was discovered around 3 p.m. Relatives have been notified.
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Memories and Condolences
for Ivan Santiago
September 14, 2011
My tio will always be missed, always loved, and never forgotten.. In my memory he lives, i love you tio Ivan..
Sherry Griggs
March 11, 2009
Linda,Lil Ivan, Eric, & Leia
I'm so sorry for your loss, Ivan loved his girls and was a wonderful man. My prayers are with you.
****RIP Ivan and Natalia****
**You will be missed**
Jesus (Chiqui) Santiago
March 10, 2009
You and your family will always be in our hearts, thoughts and prayers. You will be missed very much and I know you are in a wonderful place now.
TAMELA FARMER
March 9, 2009
LINDA, MY HEART GOES OUT TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY, I AM HERE TO HELP YOU IN ANY WAY I CAN, ALL YOU NEED TO DO IS CALL.IVAN WAS A VERY PROFESSIONAL, RESPECTFUL AND POLITE MAN TO ME AND I WILL MISS HIM. MY LOVE TO YOU AND KIDS.
MAYTE TRAMMELL
March 8, 2009
DEAR LINDA, LIL' IVAN, ERIC AND LEIA, PLEASE KNOW THAT WE ARE HERE FOR YOU FOREVER. TRY TO REMEMBER GOD'S GOING TO GET YOU THROUGH THIS. WE LOVE YOU ALL VERY MUCH, YOUR LOVING FAMILY THE TRAMMELLS. RUSSELL, MAYTE AND THE GIRLS.
IDA TAYLOR
March 8, 2009
WITH SYMPATHY IN YOUR LOSS MAY GOD BE YOUR COMFORT CAST YOUR BURDEN ON THE LORD AND HE WILL SUSTAIN YOU PSALMS 55:22
C. Camacho
March 7, 2009
Little Ivan, Eric and the entire Santiago family. . My deepest sympathy for the loss of Big Ivan. If theres ever anything I can do for your family during this time of need,Im only a phone call away. .day or night. Im so sorry for your loss.
Marisol Santiago & Family
March 6, 2009
To "The Santiago Family": Ivan brought so many gifts to our life. We will never forget him! We will miss Ivan! With heartfelt condolences,
Juan(Nitin), Margarita(Margo), Jose(Papo), Marisol(Mari), Juan Jr.(Nito) Santiago & Family
March 6, 2009
Linda, Little Ivan, Eric and Leia:
Words seem inadequate to express the sadness we feel about Ivan's death. We are here to support you in your grieving process. With sincere sympathy from:
Kevin & Kathy Holthouse
March 6, 2009
Dear Linda and Family,
I just wanted to let you know that you are all in our prayers. Ivan was a good friend and will be missed. As you know he was the "King" of the Bar-be-que. The last thing he talked to me about on the phone just a few weeks ago was whether or not the little building at the corner of 224 and 103 (the old Speedway gas station) was still available for sale. It was one of his dreams to have " Ivan's Bar-be-que shack" there and have it open during the summer. So that is one of the things I will always think about and miss when I remeber Ivan. We will keep you in our prayers.
Victoria and Maria Perez and Espinoza
March 6, 2009
To Santiago family and close friends.. We are so sorry to hear about your lost out here in Texas our hearts and prayer joins the rest and may they walk on the streets of gold... may they rest in peace..
Maria and Isidoro Espinoza Sr.
March 6, 2009
linda,little ivan n eric..my condolences go out to you and your family.ivan and natalie are now walking on streets of gold up in heaven.our prayers and thoughts are with you..
Sheri Holthouse
March 5, 2009
Linda... words are failing me and that doesn't happen often. My prayers are with you and your family. I hope you find comfort in the number of people whose lives were touched and brightened by Ivan and Natalie. Those that loved them, and love you and lift you up now. I'm praying for you and wish you peace and comfort.
Stephanie Williams
March 5, 2009
May the Lord keep you and comfort you in your time of great loss. He truly understands your grief and is there for you because He said He would never leave your nor forsake you. My prayers are with you. I am a friend of Mickey Taylor's.
Mr. Ralph Canales
March 4, 2009
Linda, I am very sorry for your loss thinking of you and your family.
Love Beatle
Lydia Canales
March 4, 2009
Linda I am sorry for your loss our prayers and thoughts are with you,
Love you always
Lydia Canales ( Longi) Uvalde, Texas
Duane Kathy Mike and ross knoblett
March 4, 2009
little ivan linda and family, you are all in our hearts and prayers, ivan and natalie will be missed they were both wonderful people and very special to our family. even though god called them home early they will always be with in our heart and spirit. If there is anything we can do please call us anytime. 615-688-5165 or 517-531-5070
Sandra Goldberg
March 4, 2009
I send my deepest condolences to the entire Santiago family, my heart goes out to you
Sylvia Guajardo
March 4, 2009
To the Santiago family,
I am an old friend of the Santiago Family. I knew Ivan Sr. and Linda through Miguel (Ivan’s youngest brother). We spent a Christmas together back in 1990. I have not seen you since. You may not remember me as I remember Ivan and his family. Ivan was such a great person. He had a smile that you can never forget. I am so sorry and wanted to offer my condolences.
Email is such a poor format for this. On the blessedly few occasions when I have had to write to convey my condolences, I am always at a loss for words, it would be so much better if I could convey my condolences in person. You have been in my thoughts since I heard of this tragic accident. May god be with you all and give you the strength to move on.
Lisa & Arnulfo Martinez
March 4, 2009
Linda, Eric and Little Ivan,
My deepest sympathy from my family to yours. Words can not express how saddened we are to hear of your loss. My padrino, Ivan was such a wonderful human being. I will always remember him with that great big smile he always carried. I am so glad I got to see him one last time at my sister, Vicky's wedding this past November. Remember how we sat back and giggled at him and my mom as we watched them show off thier moves on the dance floor?!
Linda, As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends..
My husband and I only regret that we aren't able to be there to accompany you and your family right now. May God Bless you and your family and just know that you all are and will remain in my prayers.
Shari Canales
March 4, 2009
Linda, Little Ivan, Eric & Leia -
There are no words to express how very sorry I am for all of you. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Remember you are not alone, you are loved by many.
May God be with each of you during this time and the times to come. Don't hesitate to lean on those around you, you are not alone.
kim Kuker
March 4, 2009
Linda, little Ivan, Leia, My heart is so saddened from the loss of uncle Ivan and Little Na Na. I wanted to share some memories I have of uncle Ivan- Dancing at my brothers bar-mitvah- ( what moves!) his pride and a smile from ear to ear as he saw his name for the first time on the truck - "Santiago" . His caution and attention to Madison as she rode a big horse for the first time . His great pride as he became a father again... When ever he was around I remember Uncle Ivan would always hug Aunt Linda and nuzzle in her neck . Aunt linda would always giggle and get embarressed. It is these simple memories that I hope will bring comfort to my family. No words I can say can express my deepest sympathy. My Uncle , your husband and your father was a self made man who was not afraid of hard work to provide better things for his family. My his love be inprinted in your hearts forever. My thoughts, my prayers ,and my love are with all of you. Aunt Kimi
Lisa Vazquez & Family
March 4, 2009
Those we love are never really lost to us--
we feel them in so many special ways--
through family and friends they always cared about
and dreams they left behind,
in beauty that they added to our days...
in words of wisdom we still carry with us
and memories that never will be gone...
Those we love
are never really lost to us--
for everywhere their special love lives on.
Those who live in the hearts of others....
are never forgotten.
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of sorrow.
Blanca, Neco & Antonio Ojeda
March 3, 2009
Our thoughts and prayer got out to you and your family. May God Bless you and your family.
ANNIE FIGUEROA
March 3, 2009
LINDA AND FAMILY:
I CAN JUST REMEMBER GOOD MEMORIES W/ IVAN AND THE FAMILY... HE WAS ALWAYS SO GOOD TO ME AND MY FAMILY ... MY LAST MEMORY WAS A SWEET 15 WHERE HE ASKED ME TO DANCE AND HE JUST SMILED... I WILL MISS HIM SO MUCH... GOING TO WORK WILL NEVER BE THE SAME AS I ALWAYS SEEN HIM IN THE YARD... LINDA AND LEIA KNOW THAT I AM HERE ALWAYS... LINDA U HAVE BECOME MY FRIEND OVER THESE LONG YEARS AND I LOVE YOU... I WILL PRAY THAT YOU,LI'IVAN,ERIC AND LEIA WILL GET THROUGH THIS...
Susan Landesman
March 3, 2009
Linda, I just heard that this tragedy involved your loved ones. My deepest sympathies to you and your family. God is with you to help you through this time.
barbara wittman
March 3, 2009
my deepest sympathy and many prayers. I am Micky's friend
ANTOINETTE & CHARLES OFIELD
March 3, 2009
GOD BE WITH YOU IN YOUR LOSS I AM PRAYING THAT GOD WILL GRANT YOU PEACE TO EASE YOUR HEART
Delores Figueroa
March 3, 2009
Linda, Eric, Ivan Jr, and Leia
We were so saddened to hear of your loss and send our sincere sympathies to you and your family.
May the precious memories of your lost ones comfort you during this time.
You are held in our thoughts and prayers.
Much love.
Ana, Sandy & Danny Garcia
March 3, 2009
With heartfelt sympathy. Know that you and your family are in our prayers and thoughts. We remember Ivan from the good old days in Belle Glade.
Jessica Otto
March 3, 2009
Mrs. Santiago and Ivan - you all will stay in our thoughts and prayers. I know Ivan will keep Mr. Santiago's legacy alive. You have such a great family! We are praying for you and your family.
Lucy (Sotomayor) Mobley
March 3, 2009
Linda,
My thoughs and prayer go out to you and your family. May God bless in days to come.
At Marty and Deanne's welcome home party 05/2008
Santos Torres & Family
March 2, 2009
Though he brings grief, he will show compassion, so great is his unfailing love. For he does not willingly bring affliction or grief to the children of men.
- May the lord bring your family peace in this time of sorrow.
Elsa Y Guillermo Hernandez
March 2, 2009
Our prayers are with the family stay strong. We will all meet one day again. Que dios los bendiga a todos.
LOUIS LUTFEY JR.
March 2, 2009
IVAN SANTIAGO SR. WAS SO OUT GOING AND SUCH A MAN AN ALSO A FRIEND TO ME AND MY FAM. FOR SO MANY YEARS I DON'T WHAT TO SAY BUT THAT I WILL MISS HIM SO MUCH LOVE YOU MAN.
Jim & Marge Vazquez
March 2, 2009
Linda & Family,
May God's hands of compassion and love and his guiding light from above, shine upon you and give you strength during this time of sorrow. May you find comfort in knowing that friends and relatives share in your loss.
God bless you and your family,
With our deepest sympathy,
Jimmy and Marge Vazquez
Sylvia Rodriguez
March 2, 2009
Linda-
Our hearts and prayers are with you. I'm so glad that I got to see him while he was still here. I will remember him always. He always spoke so highly of you and the girls.
Love Sylvia R
Jim & Marge Vazquez
March 2, 2009
To Linda & Family,
May the Lord's hands of compassion and love and his guiding light from above, shine down upon you and give you strength during this time of sorrow.
May you find comfort in knowing that friends and relatives share your loss.
With our deepest sympathy,
Jim and Marge Vazquez
Michelle Barrera
March 2, 2009
You may not remember me, I remember you from years ago. I'm Carlisa's cousin, Michelle, from Arcadia. I am SO very sorry to hear about your loss. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
john & renee quinones
March 2, 2009
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Vivian DeJesus
March 2, 2009
My heart and prayers to the family.
Marty Crawford
March 2, 2009
Dear Linda and family,
Please know that your family will be in my thoughts and prayers at this most heart breaking time in your lives. We do not understand why these things happen, but must trust in God, to see you all through it. Even though it seems so very dark right now, he will always be there for you. I never met Ivan, but from what my daughter, Dayna has told me, he was a wonderful, fun loving husband, dad and grandfather. He would want you to try to stay strong, while going through this painful family tragedy, which seems impossible. But know, that Ivan is looking down on you, with love in his eyes, wanting you to be o.k. You will see him and your granddaughter again, after your work here on earth is done.
So, be at peace in your heart, you will have a lot of tears to shed, you will come through this. You are loved and needed...now & always.
God Bless xxx ooo
Erika Hernandez & Carlos Rios Jr.
March 2, 2009
Linda and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. No words can express the lost of your loved ones. Cherish the memories you have. Trust in God and you can overcome anything.
freddie canales
March 2, 2009
sorry for your lost.our prayers are with you.
Carlisa Perez and Family
March 2, 2009
Linda and family, my dearest friend in the world, may the Lord give you strength and see you through this difficult time. Know that I am here for you always and so many are mourning with you.
Carlisa Perez and Family
March 2, 2009
Linda, my dearest friend in the world, may the Lord give you strength. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family today and always. There are no words to express my sympathy for your loss. Know that you are loved by many and we all are mourning with you.
Dilcia Quiñones
March 2, 2009
Dear Linda and family,
At times in our lifes, words can't express our feelings, but always remember that what is going to keep you going are the beautiful memories.
In times of tears may you remember laughter. In time of sadness, may you remember his beautiful smile. May you find confort in God's word the Bible where it says at Psalm 18:2: "God is my crag and my stronghold and the Provider of escape for me. My God is my rock. I shall take refuge in him". May those warm memories give you the strenght you need. With love, Dilcia and family
James Threlkeld
March 2, 2009
The Glades will be emptier place without Ivan.A good man,a great father,friend and one hellava baseball player.Always had a smile on his face.To those who read this page and to the family members;Do you know where you will spend Eternity?Life is a brief moment in time,like a whisper in the wind.Trust JESUS with your eternal destiny.GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
The Cabrera Family
March 2, 2009
Dear Linda & Family,
Our deepest condolences to you and your family. We know it seems unfair to lose loved ones, however, God knows the hurt and pain you feel right now. May you find peace and comfort knowing He is with you during these difficult days. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of grief. May all your memories bring you comfort.
Ivan and Liea in Ohio Dec 2007
March 1, 2009
Leia and Ivan with their snowman
Ashley Martinus
March 1, 2009
It's hard to believe the last time I saw Ivan was a little over a year a go when you all were in town visiting for Emily's wedding. It was the first time Leia saw snow. She, Ivan, Liz, and my dad built a snow man. :) Ivan was always fun to be around and told the best stories. He will be missed. We're thinking of you, love you all!
WE LOVE YOU
March 1, 2009
You will be missed. WE LOVE YOU
March 1, 2009
lupe garcia
March 1, 2009
prayers for the santiago family
Mickey & Tim Taylor
March 1, 2009
Linda and Family,
There are no words to express the lost of a love one. Our prayers are with you and your family. May the LORDS ANGLES WRAP THEIR WINGS AROUND YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.
Ricardo and Delia Urcadez
March 1, 2009
Dear Linda and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. Trust in God to see you through.
Ivan and Leia dancing at Em's wedding..
Ken & Robin Holthouse
March 1, 2009
A "Bigger than Life" presence that will be greatly missed! Ivan was a wonderful friend for over 20 years. We'll miss his humor, energy, and the generous human being that he was. Our prayers are with your family, and we're always here for you!
Melissa Torres-Hairston
March 1, 2009
Our thoughts and Prayers go out to you and the family.
William and Melissa Torres-Hairston
Blanca Ojeda
March 1, 2009
Our thoughts, prayers and love are with you and the family.
Love Blanca and family.
Alex Esparza
March 1, 2009
To Santiago Family,
Words can not express how sadden we are to hear about your loss. Please know that you and your loved ones are in our thoughts and prayers. I am greatful for our friendship throughtout so many years and please call me when ever you need me. I'm here for you. Love you.
Kirk and Debbie Holthouse
March 1, 2009
Dear Linda and family,
We just want to express our deepest sympathy for your loss. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. May God give you his grace and peace as you go through these difficult days and weeks ahead. We are greatful for the friendship we enjoyed with Ivan over the years.
ELIZABETH ALVAREZ
March 1, 2009
FROM THE ALVAREZ FAMILY OUR CONDOLENCES GOES OUT TO THE SANTIAGO FAMILY. CONTINUE TO PRAY AND JOIN HANDS AS WE CONTINUE TO BE STRONG FOR THE FUTURE. IVAN SR. AND NATALIA SANTIAGO WILL BE TRULY MISS AND WE HOPE TO SEE YOU IN HEAVEN ONE DAY.
Ivan,we had fun at the wedding.
Raphael and Jane Torres
March 1, 2009
May the Lord grant you the strength
needed at this time of deep sorrow. Our prayers are with all of you.
Thanks for a lifetime of wonderful memories you'll be missed
James & Ruthie Padin
March 1, 2009
our thoughts and prayers go out to all our family members. They will be greatly missed.
Jordon/Connie Holthouse
March 1, 2009
Dearest Linda and family
Can't tell you how sorry we are that you have to go through this. We send you our love but most of all our prayers that God may be your comfort and guide you throught this time of grieving. God loves you and so do we. We will miss Ivan too.
Wilson Clas
February 28, 2009
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
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