Santiago S Aponte

Santiago was a devoted husband to Dalia Maria Colon de Aponte, and together, they shared 65 years of marriage, a journey marked by unwavering dedication and companionship. Santiago was one of 18 children, and he cherished his relationships with his surviving siblings: Santos, Ana, Mary, Candida, and Elba. His parents, Evangelista Aponte and Rosa Maria Martinez de Aponte, instilled in him the values of family, hard work, and perseverance.

Throughout their 65 years of marriage, Santiago and Dalia Maria were blessed with eight children: Dalia Maria (George), Maria de Lourdes, Santiago Edgardo (Solemar), Luis Roberto (Susan), Rosa Margarita, Linda Iveliz Maria, Edda Milagros, and Carlos Alberto. Their family grew, and they took immense joy in supporting and nurturing their 15 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Solemar Jodali (Chase-Josefina), Cassandra (Eric-Dean),Carlos Jr. (Analisa-Elijah, Leo, Myles), Alexander (Shemeeka-Angela, Alexander Jr.), Roberto Miguel (Christina-Esperanza), Zachary (Alexis-Julis, Mila Rose, Zavier), Santiago Jr. (Jodi), Dahlia (Frank), Matthew, Anthony, John Patrick, James, Daniel, Luis, and Lauren. Santiago's love for family knew no bounds, and he always made time for each one, leaving lasting memories of his warm presence.

Santiago began his career in the Army, where he rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant and served with honor during the Korean War. After returning to Puerto Rico, he transitioned to a civilian career as an accountant, eventually becoming the Director of Finance. In 1980, he and his family settled in Austin, Texas, where they established their roots and made cherished memories.

To say we loved Father and Grandfather, Santiago, would be an understatement, and to say we are going to miss him would be an even greater understatement. His presence in the kitchen, skillfully seasoning a Pernil or making pasteles, and tending to the backyard will be profoundly missed.

Santiago's cleverness was matched by his willingness to share a laugh, even at his own expense. He was a culinary artist, imparting his culinary wisdom to his family, especially when it came to his famous Pernil and pasteles. His green thumb extended to the garden, where he nurtured plants and created beautiful outdoor spaces.

Throughout their journey, Santiago and Dalia Maria stood as a united team, supporting each other and their extensive family both spiritually and physically. Santiago's work ethic was unparalleled, and he instilled in his family the belief that with determination, anything was possible.

As we gather here to mourn his passing, we draw strength from the example set by our Mother and Grandmother, Dalia Maria, who has shown unwavering strength during these difficult weeks. Santiago's legacy lives on through his eight children, strong branches of the family tree, ready to support and embrace Dalia Maria whenever she needs them.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our family, extended family, aunts, cousins, friends, and employers for your unwavering support. We appreciate the care provided by Olin E. Teague Veterans Center, St. Paul Catholic Church staff, and the Weed Corley Fish Funeral Homes. To all who are present, whether near or far, during this challenging time, thank you for standing with us.

In the memory of Santiago Aponte Martinez, let us celebrate a life well-lived, a heart full of love, and a soul that touched us all. May his spirit rest in eternal peace.