Tribute By: Christina Etchberger with Jasmin Cruz, and the The Medina Family
“Grandparents hold our tiny hands for just a little while, but our hearts forever.”
The military life is a lifestyle that is challenging in many different ways. I personally am so grateful for my Nana and Grandpa who have always been my rock – as a military spouse, mother, and their granddaughter. My Grampa T and Gramma T have also shown so much support, visiting with us and sharing stories about the military. Grandparents and our loved ones make this journey a much easier and happier one. Thank you to all our proud military grandparents!
Today we honor all of our grandparents who have or have not experienced the military lifestyle, but who are some of our greatest supporters. Military families need to know that our family members are always there for us, no matter the distance.
Milsomuster app Founder Jasmin Cruz, is an advocate for Alzheimer’s Awareness and finding a cure. We have a special tribute, to honor her Navy husband’s grandfather: Francisco Medina
Francisco Medina, age 79, of Sunrise, Florida, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his adoring family, on March 7, 2018 after a courageous fight with Alzheimer’s disease. Born December 3, 1938, in San Lorenzo, Puerto Rico, he was preceded in death by his parents, Pablo and Agueda, sister, Maria Socorro and his brother Pablo.
He is survived by his wife of 51 years Regina Medina (Carrion); children Jorge David Medina, Frank Medina, married to Angie Jones Medina, and Teresa Nair, married to Madhav Nair, 8 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild; siblings Juan, Luis, Jose Ramon, Domingo, Gladys, and Carmen Luz. He moved to Lorain, Ohio at the age of 18, to live with his uncle and family, where he worked for Fruehauf Trailer Company for many years. Francisco was an active member of Sacred Heart where he was involved in many ministries. He was a talented musician who lived for his music, where he played his guitar in the Church choir. He served his community as President of the CYO, Eucharistic Minister, and Men’s Club.
After marrying Regina, together they became leaders in the Worldwide Marriage Encounter and Cursillo Movements. He was a founding member of the Trio Puerto Rico, with whom he played his guitar for over 25 years, accompanied by Artemio Garcia (deceased) and Carlos Berrios. After moving the family to Florida in 1979, they joined Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Church in Ft. Lauderdale, where they became fully immersed in their beloved faith community.
Francisco had a passion for cooking and always had his home filled with family and friends. It brought him great joy to open his door to anyone for one of his famous home cooked meals along with a friendly game of dominoes, which he took VERY seriously.
Francisco was a devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and always a very loyal friend to all. He was a humble man who was always willing to share whatever he had with others. He touched the lives of his friends and family by his example as he was a faith filled man with a generous heart. He will forever be missed and cherished by all those who had the honor to meet, know, and love him!
Tell us about your grandfather, grandma, or loved one that acts as your grandparent. We want to hear who supports you on your journey we call life.
Thank you again to all our beloved grandparents supporting our service members and families.
Visit the Alzheimer’s Association to support their vision and mission.
World Alzheimer’s Month is September, with the 21st of September known as World Alzheimer’s Day. Learn more at the link.
Vision: A world without Alzheimer’s and all other dementia.
Mission: The Alzheimer’s Association leads the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support.