Joaquin Mariano Perez-Febles

With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Joaquin Mariano Perez-Febles, aged 86, on October 14, 2023, at his home in McLean, Virginia.

Born on May 15, 1937, in Cardenas, Cuba, Joaquin was a proud graduate of La Progresiva (Presbyterian Academy) in his hometown. His spirit of determination was evident when he represented Cuba’s Rowing Team at the 1956 Summer Olympic Games in Melbourne, Australia.

Joaquin’s educational journey was both rich and varied. He attended the University of Havana until the Cuban revolution, after which he and his wife, Clemen, emigrated to the United States in 1962. He completed his dental studies at Georgetown University, where he later taught until the dental school’s closure. He furthered his education at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry specializing in Periodontology and later earned a certificate in Implant Dentistry from Harvard University.

Joaquin was respected as a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and member of the Northern Virginia Dental Society, where he was a compassionate volunteer in their indigent clinic weekly for over 20 years. Joaquin dedicated his life to his profession as a dentist and periodontist, serving countless patients with care and expertise over his 51 years in practice.

Joaquin’s faith and community were an integral part of his life. He served as a Trustee, Elder, and long-time mission trip volunteer at First Presbyterian Church of Arlington, Virginia for over 60 years.

A passionate Cuban American patriot, Joaquin was deeply committed to supporting the Cuban exile community in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. For over 50 years he was chief organizer of the annual Cena Martiana, commemorating the life and work of Jose Marti, beloved patriot, poet, and statesman of Cuba. In 2023 his dedication was recognized by the Miami Florida-based, Christian Democratic Movement for Cuba, honoring him and Clemen for over 50 years of unwavering service.

A devoted husband, Joaquin was married to the love of his life, Clemen, for 61 years and together they raised eight children. His legacy lives on through his extensive family, including his two brothers, Tomas and Juan Perez-Febles, eight children, their spouses, and 17 grandchildren: Alicia Perez-Arrieta (Ricardo), Virginia Perez Dutt (Subir), Joaquin Perez-Arrieta (Stephanie), Clementina Perez-West (Joseph), Pedro Perez-Arrieta (Mary), Agustin Perez-Arrieta (Melinda), Jacobo Perez-Arrieta, and Ana Perez-Arrieta (David).

The family will welcome guests at Murphy Funeral Home, 4510 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, Virginia, on Monday, October 16, 2023, from 5:00pm to 8:00pm. A funeral service will be held at the First Presbyterian Church of Arlington on Tuesday, October 17, 2023, at 9:30am, followed by interment at Columbia Gardens Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia. A reception will follow in the Yount Social Hall at First Presbyterian Church of Arlington.

In lieu of flowers, the family graciously welcomes donations to the American Cancer Society and the American Heart Association in Joaquin’s memory.

Joaquin’s life was a testament to his commitment to his profession, community, and above all, his family. His memory will be forever cherished by those whose lives he touched.