Carlos Vazquez

Carlos Vazquez was born in Mariel Cuba on November 23, 1934. He grew up enjoying the music, culture, and excitement of the city and the beautiful Cuban beaches. As a young adult, he became a banking professional but the momentum of the Cuban Revolution forced him and his family to flee their homeland. Carlos shared many stories of helping his family sneak out of the country and described his own dangerous exit from Cuba when he was 27 years old.

His family initially stayed in Miami but soon relocated to the Washington D.C. area where he, a non-english speaker, started over in his career by busing tables at local restaurants. Soon he met a beautiful German immigrant named Waltraud Kueppers and though they spoke very little English, they enjoyed watching movies and spending time together. By the time Carlos and Watraud married on January 31, 1965, he had learned English and was advancing his banking career. He ultimately worked his way into an exclusive computer programming position at the World Bank in downtown D.C.

In March 1970, his daughter Suzanne was born. She was his ‘Sweet Pea’ and the focus of his affection. In the 70’s and 80’s, the Vazquez family spent many summers and holidays traveling both domestically and internationally. Carlos loved travel, dancing, sunny beaches, and wonderful food.

Carlos retired in the mid 1990’s and spent the next three decades traveling, dancing, and enjoying time with friends and family. He loved his time with ‘my Suzanne’ and his grandchildren and was always looking forward to the next meal or activity. Those that knew Carlos knew that he was always on the go!

Carlos left a definitive impact on his extended family. He always volunteered to assist or provide advice and helped teach those close to him about the important things in life. He was a beautiful man with an innate instinct for navigating challenging situations as well as appreciating the importance of family. The sparkle in his eyes and the smile on his face will never be forgotten by those who had the luck and privilege to spend an evening with Carlos. Carlos came to America in his late 20s and started over, including learning a new language. With a never-quit attitude, he truly achieved the American Dream. He passed away peacefully in Bountiful, Utah in the wee hours of September 14 with his Sweet Pea by his side. He will be missed by many people but most of all by his Sweet Pea.

Carlos was preceded in death by his parents, Candido Vazquez and Justina Garcia, his brother Juan Antonio, and his sisters Olga and Nereida. They are having a party together in Heaven, eating, dancing, and celebrating the reunion.

Private services were held at St. Olaf in Bountiful, Utah.