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Rafael Echemendia Obituary
ECHEMENDIA, 61
LAKE PARK - Rafael P. Echemendia, 61, died April 23, 2009 at home in Lake Park, FL from a quick and tough battle with cancer.
Born in Cuba, August 6, 1947, at the age of 14 his family moved to Winter Haven where he resided for over twenty years. Rafael, a superintendent for general contractor in West Palm, worked in the construction industry for over forty years and began his career at Tucker Construction. Rafael was an honest, sincere, and hardworking man. He loved motorcycle racing, NASCAR, and having good times with family and friends.
Rafael is survived by his wife, Sharon, a son, Rafael "Buster" Echemendia and his wife Caroline, of Winter Haven and a stepdaughter, Blythe Byrd and her husband, Brian, of Palatka. His brother, Juan Echemendia, and his wife Reni, of West Palm, a sister Leila Head of West Palm and grandchildren: Rafael, Sebastian, Arianna, and Alina Echemendia, Dakota and Logan Byrd; Nephews Jeremy, Jon, and Josh Echemendia and Justin Head. His number of friends are uncountable. He may be gone but he will never be forgotten.
A celebration honoring Rafael's life will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2009 at 6:30 pm at the North Palm Beach Country Club, 951 US Highway 1, North Palm Beach, Florida. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or to Hospice of Palm Beach County.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Rafael Echemendia
September 29, 2009
I just read about the loss of this really nice guy. I met him and Leila when I was in Mrs. Scott's 4th grade class quite a while ago. He was such a great guy and the first thing that comes to mind is the gorgeous irredescent purple covair he drove. My brother Robert drove a black spider covair. My deepest sympathy goes to his family and friends in the loss of a really wonderful man. I know he is with his heavenly father and will be always watching from above.
God bless Patricia Walker Riddling and Danny Riddling
May 27, 2009
I just read this news today. I met Rafael 35 years ago in Winter Haven. He took me for my first motorcycle ride back in 1974! I felt very safe and always remembered the thrill of that ride, which is probably why we ride motorcycles now. I am sad to read this news. Our sincere prayers are with your family.
Ruthie and Alberto Becerra
Les & Sue Ann McDaniel
May 2, 2009
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Steve & Jolee LaCroix
May 1, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Kellie Deitrick
April 29, 2009
Rafael and Caroline,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this very difficult time.
Juan Noriega and Family
April 29, 2009
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.
Barry Stidham
April 27, 2009
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.
Rita Smith
April 27, 2009
Rafael was my brother Sam Smith's best friend. I have so many memories with him, he became part of our family and we all loved Rafael. The last time I saw him was at Sam's funeral in Atlanta, and they are both gone long before any of us were ready to say goodbye. May you both ride motorcycles forever together now!
Casey family
April 27, 2009
We are very sad about the loss of your precious Dad. No one can ever take the place of a loving Father. Our prayers are for you and your family in your time of grief.May GOD bless you all.
Nick & Paula Vassalotti
April 27, 2009
Sharon; our heart goes out to you, he was such a kind and gentle giant, we will always remember the good times we had on our Labor Day company trips.
sending you are sincere condolences!!
Lori McKown
April 27, 2009
Buster, Caroline and family:
Your dad/abuelo will always be with you; his spirit and good will be part of you no matter where you go. I know that you wanted, needed, and hoped for more time to spend with your father/abuelo but the time you did spend with him meant so much to him. I know you will miss him terribly.
If there is anything we can do, don't hesitate to ask.
Wishing you all God's peace!
Lori and Mitch McKown
April 27, 2009
Sharon, I have said prayers for you during this time of grief. After reading the obituary, I concurred that Rafael loved life. David and I remember fondly the time you and Rafael visited and "did the town" in Indy and slept on our twin bed. We all laughed. We will remember his radiant smile and passion for joy. Our deepest sympathy. Love, Karen and David Wilkerson
Leonard Hanser
April 26, 2009
Sharon: Lisa and I extend our most sincere condolences. We know Rafael will be sorely missed. Our thoughts are with you.
harry dow
April 26, 2009
Raf was my oldest (1962?) friend and we grew up together in jr and high school and maintaned contact. He was a true "Brother" and we will miss him
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