Orlando D Morales

On December 29th, Orlando Diosdado. Morales, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away at the age of 88 in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Orlando, only son to Ana Maria Morales, was born on November 8th, 1935 in Pinar De Rio, Cuba and was raised in Havana where he later met his beloved wife, Margarita Echemendia.

In September of 1956 they moved to New York City joining their mothers Ana Maria Morales and Marcela Mills. On February 3rd. Just a few short months Orlando and Margarita tied the knot and celebrated their union amongst their closest family and friends. In April of 1959 they welcomed their first son Orlando Jr “Orlandito” followed by Ninoska “Nina”, Ricardo “Rick” and Nancy. Together they raised their four children and six grandchildren Sasha, Marci, Marcel, Marissa, Marco, and Maggie in Brooklyn, New York. In 2000, Orlando D. retired after 30+ years working as Lift Operator in the Jewelry District of New York City. In his past time, he traveled to places like Spain, Brazil, Paris, Mexico and several others. He also had a great passion for music, collecting over 500 albums of artists like Frank Sentra, Nate King Cole, Ella Fitzgerald and all-time classic bands like Aragon, Vicentico Valdez, and Tito Rodriguez just to name a few.

In 2005 the love of his life dearly departed months before reaching their 50th wedding anniversary. In 2014 he relocated to Elizabeth, New Jersey to remain closer to his kids. Orlando was known for his infectious laugh, sense of humor, storytelling, and Dapper style, commonly known as “The Don” for his trend setting stylish attire and taste for fine Cuban Cigars.He served as a father figure to many sharing his life experiences, wisdom, and intuition. He was a man of conviction, morals, traditions, and respect for others.

But his best role was being a dad and exceptional grandfather. Through his strength, sacrifice, and determination to succeed, he paved the way for the next generation to reach a higher ground. Today, we are not just saying goodbye but celebrating a life well-lived, a journey well-travelled. Let us carry forth the essence of his spirit, zest for life, and his never ending ability to bring joy and happiness to others.

A visitation for Orlando will be held Friday, January 5, 2024 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Krowicki McCracken Funeral Home, 2124 East Saint George Ave, Linden, NJ 07036. A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, January 6, 2024, 11:00 AM at Blessed Sacrament Church in Elizabeth. Interment will follow at George Washington Memorial Park, 234 Paramus Road, Paramus, NJ 07653.