Robert Valdes

He was born in New York City, a son of Julio Valdes and Eurania Calero. He moved to Puerto Rico as a toddler, where he had a wonderful childhood. At the age of 13, the family moved to Detroit where he graduated from Wayne State University with a BBA, followed by a 40-year career as a Contract Specialist, working at the Defense Contract Management Agency for the Federal Aviation Administration. Later, he started his business as a consultant for the Federal Government of the United States. He achieved his success by overcoming legal blindness due to hereditary albinism.

In 1987, he married Maria, and they had two children, Francisco and Alannah.

His dedication as a father shaped his children's success - Francisco earning two bachelor's degrees and Alannah becoming a proud Marine with multiple degrees and three grandchildren. The bond between a father and his daughter is ineffable, and Robert exemplified an extraordinary standard. His gestures - sending flowers, offering a supportive hand in tough times, providing words of encouragement, and going to great lengths to ensure her comfort - highlighted the depth of his character. In the journey of life, he stood as a high standard by which his daughter would judge all men. As a father, Robert's unwavering love and care were a testament to the remarkable man he was, a divine gift as a father.

Despite being diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in 2011, Robert received a lung transplant in 2013, enjoying a good quality of life for eight years. The last two years brought more health challenges.

In 2015, he married Luisa and created a heartfelt bond with her three adult children: Susan, Thomas and Carlos. Together they formed a happy and harmonious household. This was a home that always had the door open to Francisco and Alannah.

Robert's magnetic charm, kindness, and love touched everyone around him. Despite declining health, he faced battles with strength, surviving three strokes during air travel. In his final days, he expressed how proud he was of his accomplished career.

He is survived by his loving wife Luisa; sons Francisco, Thomas Andres, and Carlos; daughters, Susan, and Alannah; sister, Cynthia; nephew, Cesar; grandchildren, Adrian, Aaron, Angelo, and Noah; extended family, and numerous friends. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew him.