Gerardo Lopez

Gerardo was born in Santa Marta de Ortigueira, Galicia, Spain. Shortly after completing his military service in the Spanish Navy, he joined his uncle Floreán to manage the Sevilla gas station and car shop in Havana, Cuba. On his journey to the island, he met his future wife, Marina. Three years after, Gerardo and Marina are married. Their only daughter is born the following year.

In 1960 the political environment in Cuba worsened and the family flees the country through the US Freedom Flights program. Upon his arrival, Gerardo is employed as a glazier, installing glass, mirrors, windows, and store fronts. Initially, for El Cristal, owned by a Spanish friend. Later on, he worked for A&A Glass, Miller Glass, and eventually on his own. After sometime, he specialized in a 24-hour temporary board-up service.

During Gerardo’s free time, he was a board member and volunteer of the Santa Marta de Ortigueira Social club. He participated in their fundraising events. He liked dancing pasodobles with his wife at their festivals and singing with the chorus in his native Galician language.

After his grandchildren were born, they dedicated most of their time to taking care of them and introducing them to the Galician culture and cuisine. On various occasions, the entire family group visited relatives in Spain.

Later in life, he enjoyed having a cafecito with friends at the Sedano’s across from his house. Gerardo’s jovial disposition and fun-loving nature endeared himself to many. He will be missed by family and his many friends.

A visitation for Gerardo will be held Monday, December 16, 2024 from 5:00 pm to 12:00 am at Caballero Rivero Little Havana, 3344 SW 8th Street, Miami, FL 33135. A funeral mass will occur Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 10:30 am at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, 2987 W Flagler St, Miami, FL 33125. A mausoleum service will occur Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 12:00 pm at Caballero Rivero Woodlawn North, 3260 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135.