

He was born on January 28, 1937 in Puerto Rico, to the late Selenia Rios and Benito Antunano Sr.
Originally, from New York City, he began his collegiate career at Herbert Lehman College before attending veterinary school. Upon graduating, he worked as an Associate Veterinarian for several years in high-volume practices, as well as serving as the Medical Director and lead veterinarian for an Emergency and Critical Care facility in New York. Dr. A eventually decided to open his own veterinary hospital in the Brandon-Valrico area.
Dr. A was a pioneer in laser surgery and was president of the Veterinary Laser Surgical Society in 2007. He was also a member of several veterinary associations including the AVMA, AAHA and the Veterinary Emergency & Critical Care Society. Dr. A. has always had a strong passion wildlife care and has even treated lions, tigers, and bears!
Dr. A’s presence will forever be felt. His caring and dedication to the veterinary profession has made a lasting impression.
Jim is survived by his wife, Nancy Cabrera; children, Jim (Linda) Antunano Jr., Karen Miller, Jordan Antunano, Jamie (Mitch) Foster; grandchildren, Dylan Antunano, Michael Antunano, Landon Foster, Levi Foster, Lias Foster, Lowen Foster, Lucas Foster; many extended family members and friends.
In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his brother, Benito Antunano Jr.
A graveside service for James will be held Thursday, May 4, 2023 at 3:00 PM at Hillsboro Memorial Gardens, 2323 West Brandon Blvd, Brandon, FL 33511.
Memorial donations can be made to The Humane Society of Tampa Bay at www.humanesocietytampa.org. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.HillsboroMemorial.com for the Antunano family.
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