Carlos Alfonso Zapata

The world lost one of its kindest people on June 25, 2026, when Carlos, 92, entered into the presence of the Lord at St. Francis Hospital in Roslyn, New York. He was born on July 16, 1933, in Piura, Peru. He touched many lives with his wisdom, compassion, and sense of humor.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Jenny; his children, Jenny, Susana (Gerard), Carlos, and Alfonso (Nadia); his cherished grandchildren, Joseph, Charles, Michael, Stephanie, Antonio, Leonardo, and Magnus; his brothers, Cesar and Jorge; and his sisters, Carmelita, Rosi, Josefina, and Cecilia. He is preceded in death by his most loving parents, Alfonso and Edmunda; his brothers, Eduardo, Hilberto, Francisco, and Enrique; and his sister, Edmunda.

At the age of 16, a young and charismatic Carlos moved to Lima, Peru to continue his education. His insatiable thirst for knowledge compelled him to attend the Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, where he graduated with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) at the age of 27.

After working for Peru’s Ministry of Agriculture for many years, he decided to move his family to America in 1977, settling in Astoria, Queens. As a movie aficionado and science fiction enthusiast, Carlos took delight in watching timeless films: Flash Gordon, Superman, and James Bond, to name a few. He loved to sing and had an eclectic taste in music. He was enamored with many genres, including Opera, Classical, and Mariachi.

Carlos was affectionately known to many by his nickname, Pichón. He took to his nickname, meaning pigeon, quite literally: He loved flying all around the world to explore new places and meet new people. His curiosity knew no bounds; he could speak for hours on end about any subject—physics, religion, history—always sure to sprinkle in little drops of wisdom from a life well lived: Tu propones y Dios dispone, No hay mal que por bien no venga, the list goes on. He was an inspiration to those who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be forever loved and deeply missed, but his spirit will continue to live on in our hearts and minds.

A memorial service celebrating Papi’s exceptional life will be held at Frederick’s Funeral Home 192-15 Northern Boulevard, Flushing, NY 11358 on Monday, June 29, 2026, from 4PM – 8PM.

Funeral Mass to be held at St. Anastasia’s Church 45-14 245th Street Douglaston, NY 11362 on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at 9:45AM.