Born in Tampa, Florida, February 29, 1928, passed away peacefully January 13, 2015. He loved telling people he had celebrated less birthdays than his children (21 ½). He was a leap year baby! A man deeply committed to his catholic faith, his family & his friends. Biological father of 4, but like a Dad to so many more! Served in the navy 1944 to 1947. Married the love of his life, Aleida “Ali” Cerra, in 1948. Began working for Mack Trucks in the mailroom while living in Florida and moved to Dallas in 1960 due to a work transfer. Worked his way up to manager of Mack’s Parts Distribution Center. Retired from Mack in 1995 after 49 years. Member of St. Thomas Aquinas since 1960. Longtime member of Knights of Columbus Council 799 and Fr. Abram J. Ryan. He was a Forth Degree Knight. Preceded in death by his wife of 32 years, Aleida “Ali” Cerra in 1980. Survived by daughters, Yvonne, Sandra and husband Lee Sanders, Barbara and Frances. Granddaughter, Wendy Sanders. Sister-in-law Josephine & husband Gerald Sabin, of Orlando, Fl. Many nieces and nephews. Dad’s favorite toast to make was “Salud, dinero y amor, y el tiempo para gastarlos”! Which translates. “Health, money and love, and the time to spend them”! Dad was a very blessed man and we will miss him very much. The family will receive friends, Sunday, January 18, 2015, from 2:00 until 4:00 PM at the funeral home. Recitation of the Rosary will begin at 9:30 AM, Monday, January 19, 2015, St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, followed by a Funeral Mass beginning at 10:00 AM. Interment will follow at Calvary Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association, SPCA of Dallas, of the Kidney Foundation.
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