Born September 30, 1931 in Juana Díaz, Puerto Rico, to parents Ignacio Flores and Eugenia Mercado.
He served in many capacities in the US Army during the Korean War. He spent time in the 65th Infantry Regiment, famously known as “The Borinqueneers”. For his time as a “Borinqueneer” he received a Congressional Medal of Honor, the highest medal given to a civilian, which was presented to him before his passing. He was also an armorer in the 24th Signal Company.
After his time in the Army, he went on to work as an Industrial Mechanic at General Electric in Juana Díaz, Puerto Rico. He continued to work there until his retirement at the age of 62.
He was well known for his love of all foods, but especially arroz con habichuelas. He loved family gatherings where all of his children and grandchildren came together to celebrate. His favorite sport was baseball, and he was a fan of the Boston Red Sox and the Tampa Bay Rays. As a grandfather he was known by many names, most notably “Wito”. He had many inside jokes for each grandkid and was eager to join in whatever the kids wanted to play. He was very wise and was able to solve any problem that came his way. He would always tell his children and grandchildren, “Usted estudie” (You need to study). He understood the value of a good education and financial stability, urging everyone to be mindful of both.
He is survived by his children Enid Ramos, Ramón H. Flores, Maribel Rosario, Gerardo Flores, Teresita Flores, Eugenia Neiberger, and Vernice Magiske, along with 15 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
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