Oscar Rios

Oscar was born in Havana, Cuba on December 9, 1922, he immigrated to New York City with his wife and eldest daughter in 1956.

Oscar was a true community representative involved in many civic & cultural organizations. He was a founding board member of Cathedral Parkway Towers (CPT) where he resided for 43 years, and was instrumental in the development & progress of the community. Member of the 24th Precinct Community Council and former Vice President of Community Board 7, he served as a voice for his fellow CPT & Manhattan Valley neighbors.

Oscar will also be fondly remembered as being a true warrior and leader within the larger New York Hispanic community. Founding member of the Circulo Social Cubano. And member of the Desfile de la Hispanidad, an organization which brought together approximately 20 groups from Spanish-speaking countries for year-long activities to celebrate their respective culture and culminating in a parade down 5th Avenue. He was on the Board of Directors for more than 40 years and served as parade coordinator for most of those years as well as president in 1976 and 1991.

For exceptional years of dedication and service to the Hispanic community, in 1996 Oscar was bestowed the honor by the King of Spain, the ‘Cruz Official de la Orden de Isabel la Catholica’. An honor equivalent of being knighted.

He was a friend to all, especially those in need. Known for his jokes and a unique and straightforward no nonsense personality. Above all Oscar loved his family. He was married for over 50 years to his beloved wife Julia ‘Clari’ who preceded him in 1999. He is survived by daughters Isabel Rios-Besosa, Julia Rios, grandchildren Victor Antonio Besosa and Alexis Besosa, great-grandchildren Aidan Oshman, Julian Oshman and Rosalia Oshman and son-in-law Luis Clemente.

Memorial donations can be made to any of the following organizations:

Alzheimer

Toys for Tots

American Cancer Society