Death of Lazaro Falcon

On Saturday, Feb. 20, 2021, Lázaro Falcón, 87, loving husband and father, passed away at his home in Berrien Springs, surrounded by family and friends.

Lázaro was born to Alfonso Falcón and María Isabel González, on Nov. 14, 1934, in Havana, Cuba. At an early age, Lázaro began an apprenticeship in carpentry, which led to his lifelong dedication to the trade. He was meticulous with his work and enjoyed sharing his woodworking talent through various projects.

He married Carmen R. Guerra, the love of his life, on Dec. 27, 1956. Together they created a happy and sheltered home for their daughters, Clemen and Carmen. When the dark clouds of political strife covered his beloved island, Lázaro purposed in his heart that his children would live in a free land. To achieve this goal, Lázaro left everything behind, sacrificing all to give his daughters a life filled with opportunities away from the grip of a totalitarian regime. On Aug. 3, 1970, the little family arrived in the USA with nothing but a few clothing items in two duffel bags and the desire to succeed through hard work and determination. From that moment on, one of Lázaro’s favorite expressions became “God bless America!”

They began life anew in Queens, New York, where Lázaro and Carmen resided for 27 years. After retiring from his job, the couple moved to Berrien Springs to be closer to their daughters. A two-year hiatus signaled to Lázaro he still had much to contribute, so he worked another five years in the maintenance department at Andrews University.

He was an active member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, dedicating countless hours in service to others. His diligent dedication was recognized through various awards and the many friendships garnered in the process.

Lázaro is survived by his adoring wife of 64 years, Carmen R.; daughters Clemen (Bradley) Sheppard and Carmen (Anthony) Escotto; granddaughters Amy (Moïse) Ratsara, Kimberly (Joshua) Cramer and Kelly Escotto; great-grandsons Mikaël Ratsara, Caleb Cramer, and William Ratsara; brother Antonio Falcón; and several cousins, nieces, and nephews. Lázaro was predeceased by his parents Alfonso Falcón and María Isabel González, and brother Ibrahim Falcón.

Visitation will be held Friday, Feb. 26, 2021, at 11 a.m., followed by a celebration of life service at 12 noon at the Berrien Springs Spanish Seventh-day Adventist Church, with burial to follow at Union Cemetery. Messages and memories may be left online at www.allredfuneralhome.com.