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Jose Antonio Alonso
8/22/2023
Jose Antonio Alonso, known affectionately as "Meme," departed this world on August 22, 2023, in Deland, Florida, at the age of 94. He was born in Santiago de Cuba, Cuba, and his journey through life was marked by a profound love for his family, and a passion for watchmaking and jewelry. His Catholic upbringing, and openness to learn and pray, gave him spiritual solace throughout life.
Born to a Spaniard father, Jose Antonio attended La Salle School for Boys, where he began to shape the foundation of his lifelong skills and knowledge. He learned the intricate art of watch repair from his father and honed his jewelry craftsmanship under the guidance of his mother. His dedication to his craft led him to pursue specialized courses in Swiss watchmaking, allowing him to continue the legacy of the cherished family store, Joyeria Alonso.
In the course of his young years, Jose Antonio met his wife, Berta Campos, with whom he shared 70 years. At the age of 39, Jose Antonio made the courageous decision to leave his beloved homeland, Cuba, behind. He embarked on a new chapter in Puerto Rico, where he would reside for 51 years, surrounded by the love of his family. In his final two years, he found solace and comfort in Deland, Florida, in the company of his loving daughters.
One of Jose Antonio's greatest joys in life was the cultivation and care of fruit trees, a passion he generously shared with his neighbors and friends. His favorite retreat was beneath the shade of a mango tree in his backyard, where he found tranquility and fulfillment.
Above all, Jose Antonio cherished moments spent in the company of his family. Their presence brought him boundless joy, and he relished every opportunity to be surrounded by those he held most dear.
Jose Antonio leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and a profound connection to his family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Berta Campos Alonso, his three loving daughters, Ileana Rodriguez (Miguel), Jackie Lichtenstein (Mark), and Dania Alonso, and a host of cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Leslie Mole (Jason), Eileen Mateu (Robert), Giselle Muscato (Anthony), Angel Daniel Morandeira (Alivia), Stephanie Ratchford (Evan), David Morandeira, and Sabrina Lichtenstein. His great-grandchildren include Isabella Mole, Daniel Mole, Madeleine Mole, Layla Mateu, and Giuliana Muscato.
Jose Antonio is preceded in death by his beloved father, Daniel Alonso Caso, his mother, Maria Teresa Hernández Pellicer, and his sister, Maria Teresa Alonso.
A service to celebrate the life of Jose Antonio Alonso will be held on Saturday, September 9, 2023, at 3:00 PM at Lankford Funeral Home in Deland, Florida. In honoring his memory, let us remember the love he shared, the wisdom he imparted, the love for cultivating and enjoying the fruits of the land. Jose Antonio's legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those he touched.