Jorge F. Sotolongo, 78, passed away on June 20, 2023
"Jorge was born on the 30th of May, 1945 in Havana, Cuba. At the age of 8 he emigrated to Manhattan, NY accompanied by his Mother Marta and younger brother. They lived there until 1959 where the next stop would be Miami, Florida. Jorge was 14. He would come of age there and enlist in the army in 1964 where he would be stationed in Germany. His service was completed with an Honorable Discharge 3 years later returning home to Miami to continue his civilian life. 3 years later he would meet the love of his life Iraida, and they would both eventually get married in 1971. The following year he welcomed his 1st son Jorge (George) followed by Daniel who came in 1976. He & Iraida would make sure to expose them to their shared Cuban heritage which included, food, music, and overall way of life hailing from Miami. In 1986, Jorge relocated the family to Apopka, FL after acquiring a coveted position with the pharmaceutical company of Upjohn. Still in Apopka, Jorge would welcome his first grandson Jonathan, on the 12th of August, 2003 born to George and wife Janice (Boly). Jayden (grandson #2) would join them on August 22nd, 2006 adding to his already immense pride.
As a person Jorge was extremely organized and especially fond of salsa music - often singing and dancing to it with Iraida as often as he would get the chance along with many other genres of music. He loved having family & friends over to conversate over dinner and/or a nice cup of Cuban coffee (cortadito). His love for movies, history and geography was very prominent and was passed with pride throughout his family. His pride for being Cuban was only matched by his pride for being an American valuing patriotism and fundamental conservative values. Jorge was well traveled also - getting the opportunity to see most of Europe while in the service. Then, while married, he and Iraida were able to visit destinations including Spain, Brazil, Puerto Rico, México, Colorado, Utah, Minnesota, Alaska & Niagara Falls to name a few.
Jorge was a great Husband, Father, Grandfather, Son & Friend!
Jorge was survived by Iraida (wife for 52 years), his sons George & Daniel, his daughter-in-law Janice (Boly), and 2 grandsons Jonathan & Jayden."