Baldassare Licata

With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life filled with love, we announce the passing of Baldassare (Baldo) Licata, who went home to be with the Lord on October 31, 2026, at the age of 84.

Born on October 16, 1942, in Camporeale, Sicily, Baldo was the youngest of six siblings, all of whom preceded him in death. In 1963, he made the journey from Sicily to America, settling in New York, where he began building a new life.

It was in New York that Baldo met the love of his life, Lena, at the hair salon where she worked. Their love story led to marriage in 1970 and 56 beautiful years together. In 1979, they moved to Florida, where they continued building a life centered on love, family, and togetherness.

Baldo worked as an auto mechanic before retiring at the age of 35. But retirement certainly didn’t mean slowing down. Baldo embraced life and found joy in caring for his boys and wife, the people who mattered most to him.

He was known for his wonderful dancing skills, and his ability to bring people together. Whether he was cooking a delicious meal, tending to his garden, playing Italian cards, or simply enjoying time surrounded by family and friends, Baldo knew how to appreciate life’s simple pleasures.

Above all, Baldo was a family man with an enormous heart. He loved his wife, children, and grandchildren with every part of his being. His greatest joy was having everyone together, sharing laughter, stories, meals, and memories. His love extended far beyond his immediate family to his many nieces, nephews, and countless friends who became family along the way.

Over the past 26 years, Baldo faced numerous health challenges. Time and again, he fought his way back to better health, motivated by his deep love for his family and his desire to spend more precious time with them. His resilience was a reflection of the love that defined his life.

Baldo leaves behind his beloved wife of 56 years, Lena Licata; his two sons, Vinny Licata and his wife, Michelle, and Lenny Licata and his wife, Heather; and his four cherished grandchildren, Enzo, Gianna, Gino, and Sofia. He also leaves behind many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

While his family will miss him beyond words, they are forever grateful to God for the many years they shared, the countless memories they created, and the love that will continue to live on through generations.

A man of Catholic faith, Baldo’s journey reminds us of the words of Scripture:

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7 (NIV)

His family finds peace and comfort in knowing that his earthly struggles are over and that he is now resting in the loving arms of the Lord, free from pain.

Funeral Arrangements

Thursday, November 5, 2026

Visitation | 4:00–8:00 PM

Kraeer-Fairchild Funeral Home

4061 North Federal Highway

Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308

Friday, November 6, 2026

Funeral Mass | 1:00 PM

St. Pius X Catholic Church

2500 NE 33rd Avenue

Fort Lauderdale, FL 33305

Burial services will immediately follow the Funeral Mass, with dinner afterward. Additional details regarding the cemetery and dinner will be shared as they become available.

In Lieu of Flowers

The family kindly requests that donations be made in Baldo’s memory to:

https://rmusa.civi-go.net/donate

What a blessing it was to have him in our lives, to love him, and to be loved by him. His love, laughter, and memory will remain in our hearts forever. 🤍