Mario Manuel Fuentes, "Maito", passed away peacefully at the age of 72 on 8/5/2025. He was a resident of Delray Beach and a Florida resident for the last 36 years.

Mario was born and raised in New York, New York and enjoyed playing baseball and strived to spend as much time with his family; a true family man from the beginning to the end. Mario joined the Army at the age of 18 as a lineman and was deployed to Korea at the same age. While living in New York he had his own construction company working on bridges in the downtown area. Mario spent the last 28 years working at Florida Atlantic University where he was well respected by students and colleagues.

Mario met his wife Gloria 21 years ago at an Italian restaurant and they fell in love at first site. They share two beautiful daughters Giulia(20) and Giovanna(15) who miss him dearly.

Mario was a Christian and believed with his whole heart that Jesus was His Lord and Savior.

Mario's personality was very joyful, a man of character, loyal, and full of integrity. He had a can-do attitude, and "I got this" was a phrase he would frequently say. He was very proud of his Puerto Rican/ Cuban background and always had the best attitude towards life and stood strong in his beliefs. Another of his popular quotes was, "Learn to listen, listen to learn," which reflects his humility and determination.

Working with his hands was his passion and he also enjoyed cooking for his family and friends. He aspired for excellence and was a detailed orientated man. Providing for his family was something he strived for daily as this brought him extreme joy. Mario would often say, "I don't know when, I don't know how, but everything will be fine."

Mario will be eternally loved and is now with His Savior Jesus where there is no more pain, nor suffering. The legacy of joy, love, and loyalty he has left will continue to inspire and uplift others.

Funeral service will be at the Palm Beach National Funeral Home & Chapel on August 15, 2025 at 11am followed by the burial at the South Florida National Cemetery at 2pm.