Rafael Angel Quinones Betancourt, 85, died Monday, January 7, 2013. He was born in Brooklyn, New York to Augustine Quinones and Belen Betancourt. Rafael moved to Palm Bay, Florida from Colorado Springs, Colorado in 1987, after a decorated military career.
He served in the U.S. Army for 30 years and one month and retired as a Command Sergeant Major. He served in the Korean War and the Vietnam War and received numerous commendations and medals including the Silver Star and two Bronze Stars.
He was a member American Legion Post 117, VFW Post 4546 in Palm Bay, the Blue Badge Association of Combat Veterans, 40 and 8, and the Spanish American Veterans Association.
Rafael is survived by his wife, Amelia, to whom he was married to in May of 1954. He is also survived by his four children, Rafael, Jr., Danny, Danae, and Darryl; his brother, Augustin; his sister, Belencita Oliver; his grandson, Jayson, and a large extended family. He was predeceased by his brother, Jorge.
A visitation will be held tonight from 6-8 p.m. at Fountainhead Funeral Home. Services will be Friday, January 11, 2013, at 11 a.m., followed by Military Honors.
Rafael's urn will be placed at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington D.C. on April 23, 2013 at 11 a.m. with Military honors.
