Birth date: Aug 25, 1931 Death date: Jul 23, 2021
Consuelo Tobar, 89, of Miami, Florida passed away on July 23, 2021. She was born Aug. 25, 1931 in Guatemala City, Guatemala to parents Marciano and Roselia (Lopez) Castaneda. Consuelo's life was centered on her home and raising Read Obituary
It is the month of my grandmother's birthday, about two weeks out, so I wanted to take stock of some memories I had of her growing up.
I remember when I was very young my grandmother always making sure I took the time to focus on school, and to expand my mind. She would help me learn Spanish since we were often a primarily English-speaking household, and would have me write down words or translate words throughout the day. Growing up, Abuelita also was the one to make sure I had a ride to and from school or from various extracurricular activities, especially when my parents were unavailable. That commitment to my education remained all the way through college, when I would stay until the wee hours of the morning, something I deeply appreciate now looking back.
I remember Abuelita also being very involved in making sure I developed my network of friends. As an introvert, going out and mingling with peers was never really my cup of tea, and Abuelita respected that. However, when friends did come over, Abuelita would make sure we had snacks and a space to play games or whatnot, and would offer rides to people who did not have a ride available. She also was very involved at school helping host events, parties, and be involved in celebrations, often bringing goodie bags and food for classmates and peers.
I remember Abuelita making sure that our sometimes divided family got together, no matter what was happening at the time. She was the glue of the family and would visit my uncles and cousins all the time, and she made sure I came along every now and then and met my extended family. When things came up and family members needed money or a place to stay, Abuelita was also one of the first to volunteer, and to offer our home as a safe space. There were many a Christmas or Easter or birthday that saw Abuelita proudly in the room/photo, watching on as her family grew and spread farther and farther from the nest.
I remember all the trips we went on growing up, to China, Las Vegas, DC., Guatemala, even just a few hours to Orlando, and how Abuelita would always find a way to enjoy herself, encouraging us to try new restaurants or see local attractions. My mom and Abuelita in China spent many hours trying to find the best jade statue to take back home to Florida, and they both enjoyed shopping in Little Chinatown in NYC.
I remember later on in life, when things slowed down, that Abuelita always made an effort to come out and join the family, even if it was a painful day or she wasn't feeling that well. Whenever I came to visit, she would come out and we would talk and hug and enjoy food together, simple things that bring the family to the table.
For 20 odd years, I lived with Abuelita and my mother before moving to NYC, and she was one of my closest family members throughout the majority of my life. I miss her dearly, and hope she is now resting peacefully.
Lots of love to my Abuelita,
- Robert Hupf Jr.
Consuelo was beloved by her family and all who came in contact with her over her lifetime.
She loved life and experiencing other cultures. She told me her favorite place to visit was China because the people there were so nice.
Over time, however, she was less able to travel, less able to see, but through to the end she always loved and was able to enjoy music. Attached is a clip of her dancing in her chair on July 6, 2021.
Below is the set list of her favorite music that was played during the viewing and was put together by her grandson, Robert Hupf, Jr.
Guilty - Barbra Streisand with Barry Gibb
I Just Can’t Stop Loving You - Michael Jackson
The Look of Love - Diana Krall
More Than A Woman - BeeGees
Above The Law - Barbra Streisand with Barry Gibb
You’ll Never Find - Michael Buble with Laura Pausini
What Kind Of Fool - Barbra Streisand with Barry Gibb
Alone - BeeGees
Woman In Love - Barbra Streisand
My mother Consuelo was my champion. The heart and soul of the family. Mi campeona. My mother strongly believed in the power of education. Education in ALL of its forms. From reading the entire encyclopedia (before Google); to learning to play the piano classically; to learning about our Guatemalan roots. My mother Consuelo encouraged me in obtaining a Masters Degree at a time, not too many females and in particular, minority women had advanced college degrees. And she was thrilled the first time I traveled internationally. It was a 3 month International student travel tour. I was hesitant to be away from home for that long, but because of my mother's emotional support, I took the trip. I visited all of Europe including Spain, Switzerland, Sweden, The Netherlands, Greece, and Russia. Prior to that, my mother had taken me and my two brothers to Washington D.C. to visit the Capitol & National Museums and New York. And at a time where there is still: misogyny, racism, homophobia, etc. - my mother Consuelo taught me acceptance, empathy and compassion for ALL people. She was thrilled when she learned the U.S. had elected an African-American President and recently, a female multi-minority Vice-President. The most cherish quality I learned from my mother Consuelo and grandmother, Roselia Lopez, was to have an open heart and to lend a helping hand to the less fortunate. That we are all equal. That no one is better than another. That we are all the same underneath.
We were never apart, my mother and I. We lived together, except for a short period of time. How I miss you, mamita!
My Mother Consuelo, Mi Campeona, My Hero!!
Vilma Tobar
Reciban nuestro cariño en este día triste donde despedimos a mi querida hermana.
Floridalma Castañeda e hijos
Un abrazo cariñoso en estos momentos de tristeza.
Vanessa Cazali
Consuelo, I was so lucky to have you as my mother-in-law and be part of your family. You will be forever missed. Fly high. RIP. Love, Suyin
Mom,
As you begin your journey, know that I appreciate all the love you shared with my family, wisdom and patience shown in my life, and caring when I needed you the most. I was truly lucky to take care of you for a while, it gave meaning of how unselfish you truly were in raising us. We talked about everything under the sun and I know we will one day continue our conversations. My heart is sad, at times I can’t hold back the tears from falling but it is because I love and miss you.
Henry
