Nestor Jorge Raggio

July 7, 1943 – February 16, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Nestor Jorge Raggio. Pancho, as he was affectionately known to his family and close friends, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2025, at the age of 81. Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on July 7, 1943, Pancho lived a long life rich with love, faith, and devotion to family and friends.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Maria (Pirucha), with whom he shared 53 years of marriage. Together, they built a family that was the center of Pancho’s world. His memory will also be cherished by Anabella Smith (daughter), Javier and Jodi Raggio, (son and daughter in law) Also Nicolette Bergeron (granddaughter) and her husband Brad, along with Luna Bergeron (great granddaughter) as well as Bryce Smith (grandson) and Sydney Price. His sisters, nieces, and nephews in Argentina also held a special place in his heart, and despite the distance, he remained deeply connected to his family there.

Pancho’s life was guided by his faith, which provided him with strength and wisdom. He believed in the power of family and friendships and found great meaning in bringing people together. Whether with a quiet conversation, a helping hand, or throwing one of his amazing asados, Pancho knew how to make others feel loved and valued.

A passionate soccer fan, he cheered for the Argentina national team with endless enthusiasm. His love for the game went beyond just the matches themselves; it was about community, joy, and pride for his Los Gauchos, often traveling far and wide to see Messi lead La Albiceleste (The White and Sky Blue) in person.

Pancho had a true gift in the kitchen. Cooking was not just a task for him—it was a way to express love, to serve, and to create lasting memories with those around him. No meal was complete without laughter, great food, and a glass of red wine shared with those closest to him.

He was also a man of remarkable skill. There was nothing he couldn’t fix. If something was broken, Pancho would find a way to make it right. For his career as a Geosynthetic Lining Construction Manager, his work took him to over 40 countries as he worked well into his late 70s consistently providing for his family for over 5 decades. His work ethic was unmatched, and he was always striving to ensure that the needs of his family were met with dedication and care.

Pancho’s passing leaves a void that can never be filled, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather brother, uncle, and friend, whose kindness, generosity, and faith touched the lives of so many.

A private memorial service will be held in his honor. His family invites all who knew and loved Pancho to remember him in their own way, or as he would have wanted—with love, laughter, and the sharing of good food and wine.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Heart Association. May he rest in peace, in the warm and loving arms of Christ Jesus, and be forever remembered for the loving man that he was and for the lasting legacy he leaves behind.