Rafael Resendes

His life was varied and rich. He was initially a lawyer in Cuba, and was Fidel Castro's law partner. They split up their practice due to ideological differences and Rafael joined the government in Cuba and became the chief of staff to the speaker of the Cuban legislature. During the Cuban revolution Rafael was initially jailed due to his anti-communist activities, but was released by Castro's chief of police, who was also his friend. He left Cuba for Miami, Florida where he was first interrogated by the CIA, then immediately found gainful work as a dishwasher for Jewish Bar Mitzvahs. He eventually obtained a job as a bellboy, and worked double shifts, seven days a week for a year to obtain money to be able to transport his family out of Communist Cuba. During that year, and at great personal privation, he saved and legally brought to the United States his wife, two daughters, two nieces, three nephews, two sisters-in-law, his aunt and her daughter and granddaughter, his mother-in-law, and his sister-in-law's two step daughters. He later revalidated a part of his Cuban law degree and attended Pacific University and became a Spanish teacher and taught for 25 years in the Atwater School District, where he raised his family. He loved his family, and enjoyed his many students and friends. He retired in Fresno to help raise his grandchildren. He is loved and will be missed.

Rafael is survived by Maria, his wife of 65 years. His children Maggie, Mariela, and Rafael; five grandchildren; and two great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, you may send remembrances to the American Lung Association, 4948 N. Arthur, Fresno, Ca 93704.