I’ve been blessed to have had such an amazing Father. Dad was one whom you couldn’t help but admire and respect. His meekness and kindness made you stand in awe. He stood firm in his faith and sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He did not live life on his own terms, but whole-heartily surrender fully to the will of God and being guided by the Holy Spirit. Your greatest gift to us was not only your unconditional love for your family but your personal testimony on how God healed you of Hodgkin Lymphoma Cancer at the age of 24, that had metastasis. You were given 4-6 months to live. God healed you and Cancer never touched your body again. Instead, God gave you a new life and on May 21, 1971, you married the love of your life, Maria Fontanez and had 3 children, Marizol, Maritza & Santos Jr. It was official; you were declared a living miracle.

My father was a man of wisdom and integrity. His ideas were innovative and creative. He took on the challenge to educating his children and ensured that each of us graduated from college. He was always ready to help us further our education if we were up to the task. He believed in us more than we believed in ourselves. He taught us to be independent. More than anything he taught us life skills, he even taught my sister and I how to change a car tire.

I was 24 when you passed away due to Congestive Heart Failure, and through the grieving processes, I witness God’s love for our family. As time went on, God healed my heart, and replaced pain with peace. Dad you were a very special man, ahead of your times. I am proud and grateful to have been your daughter. Thank you, Papi.

Your passing has made me realize how much I value all you stood for and I will always love you for it. One thing God promises for those who love Him in spirit and truth, which you did, is eternal life. I know I will see you again one day in Heaven, and this time we will be together for eternity.

See you soon!

Maritza Alicea