Esteban H. Abenoza

Born in Bogotá, Colombia, Esteban was the eldest of seven children to Esteban and Emma Abenoza. After graduating high school, he worked in his father's jewelry business and had his own office for "Commercial Art and Illustration". His life changed forever when, as a Boy Scout leader assisting with a parade, he encountered a spirited young woman, Maria Magdalena, who playfully pinched him. She would soon become the love of his life.

Esteban and Maria married in 1965 and embarked on a bold adventure, taking a one-way cruise to Hollywood, CA, in pursuit of the American Dream. Starting with nothing, Esteban walked countless miles to support his family, taking on multiple jobs while Maria cared for their growing household. Together, they had two children, and Esteban’s devotion to his family became his driving force.

He built a remarkable career in the aerospace industry, rising to the role of Draftsman Engineer. With meticulous skill and attention to detail, he made mechanical drawings by hand that remain in use today, including components for the Grumman F-14 Tomcat and the Space Shuttle. His contributions were a testament to his special gift, patience and work ethic.

Outside of work, Esteban cherished family time. His family of four created countless memories traveling across the United States, camping, visiting amusement parks, and frequently gathering with loved ones. His greatest joy was being surrounded by family.

One of Esteban's biggest joys in life was cheering on his four grandchildren's different endeavors, whether it was sports, dance recitals or school events ... he was a proud grandfather. He also enjoyed babysitting and spoiling the grandchildren with soft serve ice cream cones.

At the age of 50, Esteban discovered a new passion: rollerblading. What began as a hobby turned into an extraordinary journey, as he became a top international competitor, winning numerous championships in his age group. Every year on his birthday, he celebrated by skating his age in miles. He continued skating well into his 80s, amassing hundreds of awards and inspiring everyone around him.

Esteban also had the remarkable ability to captivate others with his never-ending storytelling. Whether sharing tales of his childhood in Bogota, his adventures in the U.S., or his experiences on the skating circuit, his stories mesmerized those around him … no matter how many times they have heard them.

Esteban and Maria shared a love of music and dance, often moving to the rhythms of Elvis Presley and Shakira. Their enduring partnership, marked by love, family and laughter, spanned 60 years.

Esteban is survived by his children, Cielito (Mike) and Art (Scott); his beloved grandchildren, Austin, Skyler, Sienna, and Grady; his siblings, Margarita, Jaime, and Isabel; and his cherished cats … Gato and Botas.

He is reunited in heaven with his wife, Maria; his parents, Esteban and Emma Abenoza; and his siblings, Fernando, Eduardo, and Arturo.

Esteban was a kind-hearted man who never had a negative word to say about anyone. His unwavering love, dedication, optimism, and unforgettable stories will be deeply missed but forever remembered. May the wind continue to blow on his face as he skates up to Heaven.