Herman Esquivel's Obituary
Herman Osorio Esquivel was a beloved husband, father, dancer and sailor who treasured sailing the Atlantic waters and the Gulf of Mexico.He was born in the city of Merida on the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. He was the son of a lawyer and judge and spent his early years in his mother’s kitchen developing a love for traditional Mexican cuisine and how a delicious meal could bring people together in celebration. For him, each day was cause for celebration.Growing up during the Depression helped him to develop a strong work ethic and explore many different trades rather than go into the family business of law. While still in his 20’s, he honed his entrepreneurial skills early by buying and running a successful small print shop.In the early 1940’s, his love of zoot suits and dancing led him to meet the love of his life, Grace Sosa, at a dance hall in Mexico City. They married soon after. They immigrated to the United States in the late 40’s, eventually settling in the Chicago area where their family grew to six children.Herman was at times a vagabond but always a dreamer who loved living life to the fullest. He loved the arts, especially music, dance, literature and working with his hands. His passion for the sea led him on many adventures including, an international incident in which the Cuban officials detained him for 10 days after his sailboat accidently strayed into Cuban waters.He traveled extensively with Grace, and they spent their later years in Cocoa Beach and Miami Beach, Florida. He is survived by his wife Grace Esquivel, daughters Leticia Esquivel, Elizabeth Edwards, Mary Ann Esquivel-Gibbs, Rosa Peralta and Susan Elena Esquivel; five grandchildren: Sean Wheeles, Darcy Wheeles McCaslin, Luna Rosa Peralta, Rodolfo Peralta and Priscilla Rose Gibbs and three great grand children: Cameron Wheeles, Bella McCaslin and Zachary McCaslin.Herman was an animal lover and supporter of rescue organizations. He always had a rescue cat or dog at his side. Donations in his memory can be made to any local humane society or rescue league.
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