Juan Carlos Carrizo

Today we honor and remember Juan Carlos, my Dad, a man whose life was a beacon of hard work, humor, determination, and tenderness. It is with a heavy heart, yet full of love and gratitude, that we look back at the remarkable life of my father, Juan Carlos, who left us at the age of 77.

The Lord called Dad home on Saturday, March 2nd, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada; no more pain, no more suffering. Dad is survived by three children, five grandchildren, and one great-grandson. His legacy is felt profoundly amongst us, his family – a legacy of persistence, provision, and an indomitable spirit that continues to live on through each of us. We love you, Dad, more than words can express.

Dads journey began on November 17, 1946, in Santiago Del Estero, Argentina, a place that would forever hold a piece of his heart. His life was marked by relentless determination and hard work. Juan Carlos served proudly in the Argentine Navy for two terms and as a Cook in the Presidential Staff of Argentina. Dreaming of a better life and the American Dream, he and my mother bravely sold their restaurant in Argentina and embarked on a journey to America in the early '80s. It was this journey that led Juan Carlos to ultimately own a restaurant in Las Vegas, a dream that, through many challenges, he never ceased to pursue. This restaurant, though not named ‘Carlos Pomodoro’ as perhaps he might have once envisioned, became a place where many experienced the delight of my dad’s culinary creations. For over 40 years in America, my father showcased an unwavering dedication to hard work, leaving a legacy of perseverance that deeply inspires me, my siblings, and our families.

He was young in his Christian walk of faith but at times during our conversations and unbeknownst to him, his dependence on Christ really stood out and encouraged me to keep on even when times were challenging. I rest assured knowing that he believed in Christ and acknowledged his need of Christ as his Savior.

He will be dearly missed by his son Emmanuel, who takes after Juan Carlos’s tender heart, and daughter Aldana, who embodies her father’s resilience, never giving up. Our father was a man who believed in achieving goals. The year 2017 marked a significant achievement as he became a proud business owner, able to share his exquisite cuisine with all. Whether family, friends, or guests, Juan Carlos always had a glass of red wine in hand as he cooked, a symbol of his love for life and the culinary arts.

Soccer and the kitchen – two passions that Dad held dear. His unwavering support for Argentina’s national soccer team kindled a tradition that I, Max, am proud to share with my own children today, passing on his love for the game. Nonetheless, it was in the kitchen where Dad's true passion lied. After 50 years dedicated to Italian cuisine, my father undoubtedly earned the title of Master Chef, a true maestro whose happiest moments were spent expressing love through his culinary creations. Dad had the privilege to work with many Chefs throughout his time in Los Angeles and Las Vegas where many celebrities were blessed to taste his cuisine.

He was a man of character and humor that would often caution us with his favorite saying: “Ojo Gardel,” reminding us to stay in line with a blend of seriousness and wit.

One surprising chapter of my father's life was his role as the lead singer of the band “Fauna” in the 1970s, a testament to his diverse talents. Additionally, Dads prowess was not limited to the kitchen and the stage; he was also a black belt in Karate-Do and an avid gymnast.

It’s the small things, the random phone calls at any time of day or night and the conversations filled with endless questions about his past, that we will miss the most. His voice, singing a Tango throughout the day, is a melody that will forever echo in our hearts, a tender remembrance of a man whose unique touch in the kitchen and in life left an indelible mark on us all.

"I love you," "We love you," "We will miss you very much, Dad,” are words that encapsulate the profound impact Dad had on those around him. His grit, his focus, his love, have forever changed us for the better.

As we reflect on the life of my Dad, let us remember him not with sadness but with fondness for the joy, laughter, and love he brought into our lives. Let his life inspire us to pursue our dreams with indomitable spirit, to face challenges with courage, and to live with a heart full of love and tenderness. Papá, your legacy will live on forever in our hearts.

Gracias Pá, por todo.

Tu hijo, Maxi.