Angel Cotto-Perez's Obituary
Angel Cotto-Perez passed on 28 December 2023, a few days after his 86th birthday, surrounded by family, in his home in Miami, Florida.
Angel was born in the home of his late parents, Pedro Cotto and Maria Perez, on 23 December 1937 in Ceiba Puerto Rico. Pedro and Maria had five children Angel, Pedro, Ana, Judy, and Naomi. Angel spent his formative years in Ceiba, PR and excelled in school and baseball. As the oldest, he took on the responsibility to help support the family and got his first job at 8 yrs old. A few years after graduating high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1957. He retired from the Army in the grade of Master Sergeant, after 24 years of service, which included tours in Vietnam, Korea, and Germany. He was awarded the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal and several Vietnam campaign medals. During his time in the service, he met his wife Barbara in Berlin, who hails from Hannover, Germany. They were Wed on 2 September 1966 and were married for 57 years. After his military career, he continued to serve his country as a DoD Civilian for another 29 years in Mainz Germany; Ft Clayton, Panama and Fort Mcpherson, Atlanta. Angel finally retired in 2011, after working for 78 yrs. Since then, he spent a lot of his days on the golf course and with his family and friends. While he had many interests, his passions were clear: Family, Military, Baseball, Golf, Socializing, a Good Meal, Dancing Salsa and Puerto Rico. His vision, hard work, determination, lively personality and talent allowed him to rise from his humble beginnings, earn a college degree, speak three languages, complete two successful careers, see The World, meet amazing people, enjoy retirement, and be loved by many--he achieved his American dream. As he always said, "it's a good day in America!" He left his mark as a Military Hero, Husband, Proud Dad, Generous Friend, and someone who knew how to enjoy Life. We will miss him deeply, however, he will remain in our hearts and minds.
He is survived by his wife Barbara, his son's Lemuel Cotto-Perez (and spouse Janice) and Pedro Cotto-Perez (and spouse Lauren). He has 7 Grandchildren: Elizabeth Prussel, Gabriela Cotto-Perez, Catherine Cotto-Perez, Victoria Cotto-Perez, Lola Cotto-Perez, Giovani Cotto-Perez, and Adriana Cotto-Perez. He also has 4 Great Grandchildren, Micah, Emerson, Isiah, and Ivy Prussel.
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