Efrain Irizarry I

April 1, 1957 - December 28, 2024

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Efrain “Frank” Irizarry, who lost his battle with cancer on Saturday, December 28th, 2024, surrounded by his family and loved ones. Efrain was born on April 1st,1957 in Detroit, Michigan to José Irizarry and Amalia Irizarry (née Velazquez). While his birthdate was fittingly on April Fools’ Day, Efrain’s sense of humor and vibrant spirit were no joke. He lived each day with a joy and energy that spread to those around him and illuminated the lives of many.

Efrain was deeply proud of his family and he leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and wisdom. He is survived by his three younger brothers, Adail Irizarry (Rosa), Harry Irizarry (Zoraida), and Albert Irizarry (Paula); his five children, Isela Irizarry, Efrain “Frankie” Irizarry II (Miosotys), Benito Irizarry (Lori), Stephanie Irizarry, and Jennifer Amalia Irizarry (Anthony); his eight cherished grandchildren, Efrain Irizarry III, Liz Miosotis Irizarry (Marlon), Kenneth Irizarry, Nichole Santangelo, Destiny Irizarry, Denzel Irizarry, Annalyse Irizarry, and Joseph Irizarry; and his first great-granddaughter, Isabella Silva-Irizarry. He will also be profoundly missed by his forever love Toni Irizarry, his brother Larry Sierra, and the Sierra family in addition to his extended family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched with his warmth and humor.

Efrain was an adventurous man who embraced life with open arms. He firmly believed in the power of living in the moment and the idea of “carpe diem” as he proudly wore t-shirts that said “YOLO” (which his grandchildren loved to tease him about). Throughout his lifetime, he made sure to squeeze every ounce of adventure out of life. He spent over 30 years working at Harrah’s on the Las Vegas Strip, where his strong work ethic earned the respect of his colleagues and guests alike, working as a bell captain and supervisor. His love for the Las Vegas limelight extended well beyond the job – he became a trusted, charismatic tour guide for his family and friends, proudly displaying the wonders of the bright lights and sharing tales of his younger days.

To his family, Efrain was more than just a loving father, grandfather, and brother; he was the life of the party. Always laughing, always ready for a joke, and always ready to make time for a good meal – whether he was making pernil, arroz y habichuelas, and tostones at home in the kitchen or stopping for In-N-Out Burger with his grandchildren during their visits. Whether he was playing music from his favorite bands such as El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, enjoying a Michelada, or telling stories of his past, he always made sure to enjoy the simpler moments in life and made everyone around him smile.

As we say goodbye to our father, grandfather, and brother, we take comfort in knowing that he lived his life fully, with laughter, love, and an appreciation for every moment. His spirit, his stories, and his joy for life will live on forever in all of our hearts.

In the words of one of Efrain’s favorite songs by El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, “Me liberé, me liberé, Gracias a Dios, me liberé” or “I broke free, I broke free, thank God, I broke free.” Although we grieve such a significant loss to our family, we take solace in knowing that Efrain is no longer suffering through his battle with cancer and pray that he is at peace.

A celebration of Efrain’s life will be held later this month, where family and friends are invited to share in his memories and laughter. Further details will be announced by the Irizarry family. While flowers are welcome, the family kindly asks that you continue to honor his memory by taking a moment to live life to the fullest – whether that’s sharing a good joke, dancing to El Gran Combo, or simply enjoying a Michelada with someone you love.

Rest in peace, Efrain. You lived, you loved, and you always made us laugh.