Omar Carlos Vega

Omar was born July 14, 1939, in Cardenas, Cuba to Dr. Omar E. Vega and Sara Silvia Sasco Vega. He grew up in Cuba, graduating from Colegio La Progressiva and attended the University of Havana. After fighting against Castro and communism, he finally left Cuba in November 1961. Upon landing in Miami, he said that he now knew what Christopher Columbus must have felt when he discovered the new world: “This is the most beautiful land human eyes have ever seen”.

Omar moved to California to be with his host family where he met the love of his life, Sofia (Ohler), in July 1962, while working at the Redwood Drive-In Theatre. Four and ½ years later, they married in December 1966. Omar studied Mechanical Engineering at Arizona State University and finished his studies in 1969. The following year, Omar and Sofia moved to Orange County, CA, where Omar started work for Continental Can Company as a Quality Control Engineer. While in California, they were blessed with the birth of their Son, Omar. Shortly after, they moved to Olathe, KS and were again blessed with two Daughters, Christina and Suzanne.

Omar spent almost thirty (30) years with Continental, retiring in 2005. Omar and Sofia both retired in Olathe, KS, and eventually moved back to Arizona in 2019 to be closer to family. They both enjoyed spending time together gardening, winemaking and being Abuelo (Grandpa) and Grandmama.

Surviving him are his beloved wife, Sofia; son Omar (Michelle) Vega of Locust Hill, VA; daughter Christina (Bruce) Elsbernd of Leesburg, VA; daughter Suzanne (Adam) Tate of Chandler, AZ; seven grandchildren, Madison, Ashton, Connor, Amanda, Amber, Sophia and Carson; two step grandchildren, Sam and David; and his sister Sara (Eddy) Vega Vinent. He is predeceased by his parents, Dr. Omar E. and Sara Vega and his parents-in-law, Martin and Hermine Ohler.

A private memorial service will be held at Valley of the Sun Mortuary and Cemetery, 10940 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler, AZ 85248, on Friday, February 11th at 1:00pm.