THE 98 SOULS LOST ON THE TRAGIC EVENT OF JUNE 24, 2021.
Luis Fernando Barth Tobar, 51
Catalina Gomez Ramirez, 45
Valeria Barth, 14
Mercedes Fuentes Urgelles, 61
Raymond Urgelles, 61
Arnold “Arnie” Notkin, 87
Maria “Myriam” Caspi Notkin, 81
Harold Rosenberg, 52
Lisa Rosenberg, 26
Benny Weisz, 31
Julio Velasquez, 66
Angela Velasquez, 60
Theresa Velasquez, 36
Marina Restrepo Azen, 76
Vishal Patel, 42
Bhavna Patel, 36
Aishani Gia Patel, 1
Richard Rovirosa, 60
Maria Teresa Rovirosa, 58
Andres Levine, 26
Moises Rodan, 28
Mihai Radulescu, 82
Maria Popa, 79
Cassie “Cassondra” Billedeau Stratton, 40
Hilda Noriega, 92
Nicole Doran-Manashirov, 43
Ruslan Manashirov, 36
Manuel “Manny” V. Lafont, Jr., 54
Andreas K. Giannitsopoulos, 21
Fabian Nuñez, 57
Andres Galfrascoli, 44
Sofia Galfrascoli Nuñez, 5
Marcus Joseph Guara, 52
Anaely Rodriguez, 42
Emma Guara, 4
Lucia Guara, 10
Luis Sadovnic, 28
Nicole Langesfeld, 26
Edgar Gonzalez, 42
David Epstein, 58
Bonnie Epstein, 56
Antonio Lozano, 83
Gladys Lozano, 79
Oresme Gil Guerra, 60
Beatriz “Betty” Rodriguez, 52
Magaly Elena Delgado, 80
Gonzalo Torre, 81
Maria Torre, 76
Claudio Bonnefoy, 85
Maricoy ‘Maria’ Obias-Bonnefoy, 69
Rosa Saez, 70
Margarita “Maggie” Vasquez Bello, 68
Francis Plasencia, 67
Miguel Angel Pazos, 55
Michelle Anna Pazos, 23
Anastasia Gromova, 24
Miguel Kaufmann, 65
Gabriela Camou, 64
Alfredo Leone, 48
Lorenzo de Oliveira Leone, 5
Gino Cesar Cattarossi, 89
Graciela Ponce de Leon Cattarossi, 86
Andrea Maria Cattarossi, 56
Graciela Maria Cattarossi, 48
Stella Cattarossi, 7
Judith Spiegel, 65
Estelle Hedaya, 54
Nancy Kress Levin, 76
Jay Kleiman, 52
Frankie Kleiman , 55
Anna Ortiz Kleiman, 46
Luis A. Bermudez Ortiz “LUIYO”, 26
Leon Oliwkowicz, 80
Cristina Beatriz Elvira, 74
Juan Alberto Mora, 80
Ana Maria Mora, 70
Juan Alberto Mora Jr., 32
Stacie Fang, 54
Sophia Lopez Moreira, 36
Luis Pettengill, 36
Leidy Vanessa Luna Villalba, 23
Alexia Maria Pettengill, 9
Anna Sophia Pettengill, 6
Luis Lopez Moreira III, 3
Michael Altman, 50
Tzvi Ainsworth, 68
Ingrid ‘Itty’ Ainsworth, 66
Gary Cohen, 58
Brad Cohen, 51
Deborah Berezdivin, 21
Ilan Naibryf, 21
Gloria Machado, 71
Simon Segal, 80
Linda March, 58
Richard Augustine, 77
Elaine Lia Howard Sabino, 71
Elena Chavez, 87
Elena Blasser, 64
NOTICE: Participation in this ongoing remembrance publication remains open to families of the 98 deceased. If you would like to include your loved one, please contact Frank Trigueros at ftrigueros@townofsurfsidefl.gov.
TZVI AINSWORTH & INGRID ‘ITTY’ AINSWORTH
My parents,
The two pillars in my life. The two halves of one heart who loved their children so deeply we never believed it would end. And yet I’m sitting here writing about how I lost the two people I can’t live without.
Whoever knew my parents, knew one didn’t come without the other. My mother’s sincerely over-the-top way of living and my father’s poised way of living connected to create what we all knew as Tzvi and Itty. My parents were such a beautiful example of what it means to have a friendship within a marriage. Looking back, I wish so badly I would have documented every waking moment with them.I always assumed I would have them until the end of time, so now I just want to remember.
One of the greatest joys in my life was growing up witnessing my parents. I will always remember the image of my parents waiting for me by the entrance of their building. I would come to pick up my mother so we could go to the beach together for sunrise.
My father was there to wait with my mother. He was there to carry my mother’s beach chair so she didn’t have to. He was there to walk with us. He was there to laugh with us.
That was the beauty of my father. He was always there with his strong presence and subtle smile. Whenever there was a moment of need, he was there. Whatever the situation was, he was there. When I felt like I could no longer carry my load, he was there to carry it for me.
Ta, when I think of you I will always feel taken care of. I don’t think I thanked you enough. From the bottom of my broken heart, thank you Ta. I have six brothers, I’m the only girl so throughout my life my mother was my person.
I always looked to her for advice, for support, for love, for laughter, for validation. I don’t think I’ll ever stop looking to her. In every moment, in every space, for all of time, I will look to her. She was the person I turned to for the big moments and the smallest moments. She knew without needing to be told. My mother was my mother, my sister and my best friend. She filled all these roles so well and with such ease.
My mother with her words was like having a never ending playlist of positive affirmations. Whenever I spent time with my mother, I would watch her gasp with joy over anyone she encountered.
Everything was amazing. This was beautiful. That was stunning. I love her. I love this. I love you. What’s the world going to do without all her love and joy? My mother would come to my house and stop at every corner to take it all in. She would say, “Chana, how did you think of putting flowers in a vase full of water? I love it.”
There was always an overflow of love and support. I miss that. I have been struggling so much with this situation myself and my brothers find ourselves in. One day we had our parents, the next day we were looking for our parents and 12 days later we were told we lost our parents.
It’s two years later and as I sit here, the reality of what June 24th stole from my life feels deeper than ever. I want to say, that it’s my honor to be my parent’s daughter. I cherish every moment and interaction with them.
Now I will also look to you, Ma and Ta, for comfort and guidance every day of my life. I hope to feel your love and care always and forever. I love you Ma. I love you Ta.
Written with all my love,
Submitted by the Chana Wasserman.
NICOLE DORAN MANASHIROV & RUSLAN MANASHIROV
Dear Ruslan and Nicole,
Not a day goes by when we don’t miss you, love you and remember you. We cannot believe that we have not seen your beautiful smiles, heard your laughter and felt your warm embrace in over two years, which feels both like a lifetime and a second. Our hearts are forever broken, and nothing will ever fill the voids your loss left.
However, we find solace in remembering you at your beautiful wedding just six weeks before this tragedy. We remember how beautiful Nicole looked, how excited she was to start her life with Ruslan, how happy Ruslan was that he met the love of his life and how obsessed he was at making Nicole and everyone happy on this special day. It was the perfect day filled with joy, family and friends. We will forever cherish these memories and pray that the Lord makes your afterlife as beautiful as your wedding.
Ruslan and Nicole were angels on this earth. Compassionate to everyone they met. During the pandemic, Ruslan as a Primary Care Physician and Nicole as a Physician’s Assistant, worked day and night to treat sick patients without regard for their own health. This world is darker without them and the 96 other beautiful souls we lost, but we will forever honor their memories and bring light into the dark.
Nicole and Ruslan, we love and remember you every day and you are forever in our hearts, minds and prayers.
Submitted by Yuliya Panteleeva.
My sister Nicole Doran-Manashirov perished alongside her new husband, Ruslan Manashirov. Nicole was a beautiful young woman who had her entire life ahead of her, she had just started it. She was a smart, witty, fun loving woman with a strong Pittsburgh personality and contagious smile that would light up any room. She was loved by so many and will be missed by many more. We think of you every day and know you are loving your time up there with Ruslan and your mom Louise. I hope you know how loved you are and how much you are missed every day. Love you always...
Submitted by Leila Doran on behalf of the Doran family.
ANDREAS GIANNITSOPOULOS
Andreas, as a man, represented three outstanding qualities of discipline, knowledge, and goodness. He never backed down from the opportunity to improve not only himself, but to him more importantly, to help others improve. He was gifted in all aspects of his life, especially academics and athletics. He was a student who went above and beyond. He tutored others out of enjoyment and the goodness of his heart. He was an athlete who strived pushing himself to be the best he could be. He was a role model and a mentor. Andrew was God-fearing. His love for God was shown through his love for his family, the grace for his friends, and the mentorship for his peers. To Andreas, family was everything. Andreas was a man who wanted to provide for his family. Andreas was a man who wanted to learn about everything. He found passion in learning about history, plants, arts, and everything else in the world. Andreas had the purest of hearts, being a faithful disciple to God. He had a heart made of gold. He was an old soul. He had a contagious laugh and a smile so radiant it filled the room. His presence was enough to calm nerves. He was a loving brother and son. He is missed by all, but his legacy lives on through all that love him.
Submitted by Athanasia Giannitsopoulos on behalf of Giannitsopoulos family.
GARY COHEN
Gary Cohen was the rock of the Cohen family. He knew no stranger, always surrounded by and encouraging family, friends, and acquaintances. Gary was a student of life, constantly learning about and studying Judaism and his relationship with God. He was a caring and compassionate doctor at the VA Medical Center in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, directing the prosthetics clinic and beloved by patients and staff alike. Gary was a devoted husband to his wife of 32 years, Mindy, and loving father to sons Jared and Seth. As an avid tennis and table tennis player, he coached his sons in the values of sportsmanship, mental toughness, fairness, and perseverance. He was so proud to see his older son get married just one month before the collapse. Gary was a dedicated son and brother; he had traveled to Surfside to visit his parents on their anniversary and stayed with his brother, Brad, in Champlain Towers that night. Gary and Mindy’s home was like Abraham’s tent; always open to anyone and willing to use his skills as a gourmet chef to nourish everyone during Jewish holidays and Shabbat. The tragedy of the Champlain Towers collapse, unimaginable and unexplainable, has left a mother, father who has since passed away, brother, wife, and two sons, with an emotional void that will last forever. His legacy will live on in his children and future grandchildren. Gary’s family and friends continue to honor his memory through generous contributions to organizations that were meaningful to him and his family.
Submitted by the Cohen family.
BRAD COHEN
Brad Cohen was an irreplaceable son, whose parents were as devoted to him as he was to them.
Intellectually curious, he liked to solve puzzles, enjoying the challenge of the Rubik’s Cube.
Brad was seven years younger than his oldest brother, Gary, and always danced to the tune of his own drummer. He chose to be in a band and joined the swim team in high school and at Williams College, like his father, rather than playing racquet sports like his brothers. And yet, Brad and Gary were both good listeners and got tremendous satisfaction out of helping people. So, as it turns out, they both became doctors.
Brad became an Orthopedic Surgeon, now focusing on the puzzle of putting bones back together. He got tremendous satisfaction out of his work and dearly loved his family. He truly loved life, with his interests ranging from his religious intellectual studies, to triathlons, to paddle boarding with his son, Avi, and to planning and cooking some Friday night dinners with his daughter, Elisheva.
Both Brad and Gary were especially close to their children and got such joy out of each of their accomplishments. These two brothers, 51 and 58 years old were robbed of their promising futures, because of faulty building construction? Imagine, they were asleep in their beds, a safe haven, one would think, when this horrible event occurred!
How sad that these two men, who helped heal so many individuals, couldn’t be helped themselves. They didn’t have a chance to see more of their own lives develop and be around to see their children follow their dreams.
Our family misses them so very much and hopes answers will be found for this overwhelming loss.
Hopefully, future families will be spared this all consuming grief.
Submitted by the Cohen family.
ELENA CHAVEZ BLASSER
Elena was a loving daughter, mother, and grandmother. She was an educator who spent most of her life teaching and helping others. She loved to travel and explore new places and have new experiences, even if they scared her. Her family was always the number one priority in her life. She was a force of nature who left an imprint in the lives of anyone she met. Her tragic death has left a hole in the lives of her loved ones. She leaves behind her two sons, PJ Rodriguez and Alex Rodriguez, and her grandson. JP Rodriguez. Our lives will never be the same without her and she is missed daily. We try to keep the two most important lessons she instilled in us since we were young: 1. Do not let fear stop you from experiencing life; and 2. Life is hard and unfair, but no matter what happens, you must always keep moving forward. Don’t turn back, not even to get momentum. Always move forward. We will try. Miss you so much, Mami/ Ama.
Submitted by Pablo Rodriguez.
Ana Maria Campo Mora was born June 25, 1951 in Havana, Cuba. In 1961 she and her brother came to the United States as “Pedro Pans” following the execution of their uncle, whom Ana Maria looked at as a father figure, and the imprisonment of their mother at the hands of the Castro regime. She overcame these hardships and became a hardworking, generous woman with an unshakeable faith in God. These qualities led her to donate a kidney to her brother and to continuously serve her community. She married Juan Alberto Mora in 1986; he was the loud, brash 2506 Brigade veteran, complementing Ana Maria’s calm and quiet demeanor. Together they raised her miracle baby, Juan, Jr., who became a successful business executive. After retiring from a 30-year career at Delta Airlines, Ana Maria followed her heart and served at Juan Jr’s alma mater, Belen Jesuit Preparatory School. There she was known to consistently encourage others by referring them to apply her “four Ps”: prayer, patience and the power of positive thinking. She loved to travel, having visited China, Peru, and Egypt, and was looking forward to a trip to Spain to research her family’s roots. Ana Maria and Juan moved to Champlain Towers South in 2013, and Juan Jr. moved in to work from home, so the family was together during the tragic collapse that claimed their lives. Ana Maria’s lifelong example teaches us that love and family are forever.
Submitted by Maribel Greenmyer.
ANA MARIA CAMPO MORA
FRANCIS FERNANDEZ
In honoring our beloved mother, we find solace in a collection of quotes that encapsulate her spirit. Each quote represents a facet of her vibrant personality, the joy she radiated and the love she shared.
“Some seek happiness, others create it.” Written on the chalkboard that greeted all who entered her home - Mom had aremarkable ability to find joy in the simplest of moments. Her enthusiasm made every experience memorable.
“Gezellig.” It encompasses more than just coziness and warmth; it represents time spent with loved one’s. Mom welcomed all who entered our home with open arms, eager to prepare elaborate meals while taking pleasure in sharing recipes with family and friends, ensuring her legacy would live on.
“The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the greatest intention.” Her faith played a vital role in her life. She embodied service and compassion, volunteering tirelessly to make a difference. Her commitment to helping others left an indelible mark on us and influenced our own paths of service.
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel,” Mom’s kindness extended to every interaction she had. Her genuine interest in others, attentiveness to details, and infectious laughter created a lasting impact on everyone she encountered.
In honoring our beloved mother, we strive to embrace her contagious enthusiasm, her love for gezellig moments withloved ones, her unwavering kindness, and her ability to make everyone feel special. Although she is no longer with us. Wecarry her love and spirit wherever we go.
Submitted by David Velasquez, on behalf of the Velasquez family.
JULIO VELASQUEZ
Julio knew how to put a smile on your face. Witty and charming, the man could steal a laugh from a statue. He loved to have fun. He grew a tenderness with age that made those around him, especially the children in the family, flock to his side. He was an expert conversationalist and discussed religion, politics, or any other discipline with a familiar, inviting baritone. Like any good salt-of-theearth Colombian, Julio was a superb dancer and an avid soccer fan and player. He could forge a connection with anyone; his friends spanned all walks of life.
A devoted husband and father of two, Julio moved to South Florida in 1984 and expertly provided for his young family, helping them realize the American Dream. He was a jack of all trades, working across industries through much of his lifetime. He was a talented artist and, in his later years, a passionate writer. Julio’s devotion to the Catholic faith was steadfast – as it became more central to his life, he worked for the Archdiocese of Miami; it was a role he cherished.
Julio always took the time to reach out to family and friends. He would always return your calls and make time for conversations. In a busy world filled with busy people, finding someone like Julio, who was never too busy for those who sought him was rare and wonderful. His gentle presence is deeply missed.
Submitted by David Velasquez, on behalf of the Velasquez family.
Angela was a remarkable woman who made an indelible impact on the lives of those blessed enough to have met her. Though small in stature, she cast an intimidating presence and was powerful in a modest way. The earnestness of her good intentions was always clear and convincing. Her captivating beauty, both inside and out, and unwavering determination to help left an enduring mark on so many. Angela is remembered most for her limitless generosity and warm hospitality – whether it was her home, her car, or even her clothes, she shared everything she had with astonishing openness.
Despite Angela’s dedication to those around her – or perhaps because of it – she founded Fiorelli Men’s Clothing in 1987, a successful retail business in Weston that continues to serve customers to this day. Raised in Colombia, she did not speak English upon arriving to the US. She didn’t even have a college degree; something she made sure would not be the case for her two children. She built the business by tapping into the same tenacity that powered her boundless kindness.
Angela spent the bulk of her energy in support of her family. A committed wife and mother, a sister to eleven siblings, an aunt, a cousin, a niece, and on and on. She found time to show the love in action that made all our lives more joyful; her example and legacy live on in the family, united and in support of each other.
Submitted by David Velasquez, on behalf of the Velasquez family.
Theresa was memorable – in both the grandest sense and in the smallest of interactions. Her presence lit up a room. It was contagious and magnetic, her kindness unlimited. She found the beauty in each person she encountered and amplified it, celebrating the strengths of everyone around her, without dimming her own. And her coolness was effortless. She was a connector, a mover and shaker, and she lived fully. A friend once remarked “Theresa excels at life.”
Whether through sheer intelligence, unparalleled tenacity, or simply talent, Theresa succeeded at everything she set her mind to. She followed her beloved brother, David, to Georgetown University, and then received an MBA in music business at New York University. She was a gifted musician, mastering multiple instruments and following her passion for house music across the world. She tapped into her Colombian roots, creating a unique sound, with infectious live drumming during her DJ sets. Professionally, Theresa thrived as Senior VP of sales at Live Nation, where she was innovative and invaluable.
But all her accomplishments aside, Theresa was pure love. Her love for her family was limitless. She helped mold her brother into a better man and lived by her parents’ beautiful example. Theresa was courageously herself, a beam of joy, and a bringer of laughter. Theresa championed everyone else around her. She’d find that thing you were waiting for someone to see in you. She leaves behind a wake of uplifted people, and we can honor her legacy by doing the same.
Submitted by David Velasquez, on behalf of the Velasquez family.
ANGELA VELASQUEZ
THERESA VELASQUEZ
CLAUDIO BONNEFOY
Claudio Bonnefoy Bachelet, a native of Chile, was a person who reflected what he believed in: the importance of getting a good education and of creating something of value for others. He was a lawyer, an avid reader, learner and chess player, and was fluent in his native Spanish, French and English. As a young attorney, he taught international law at the University of Chile, was a legal advisor to the Foreign Ministry and later to the Chilean Embassy in Washington DC, which is what led him to move there in 1972 with his first wife, Pilar, and four daughters. He was Deputy Legal Advisor at Intelsat from 1974 until he took early retirement in 1991, after which he worked for the IFC, travelling to East Europe and Asia. He married his second wife, Maria, in Maryland and they spent their retirement years in Miami, leading a healthy lifestyle, taking classes and travelling the world.
He was very supportive in encouraging his daughters and grandchildren to think logically and independently, and always kept in touch, either by regularly visiting or by long phone or Zoom calls. Invitations to stay at his place were regular and he and Maria always welcomed us with kind hospitality. Because of covid and the inability to visit each other, we celebrated Father’s Day of June 2021 with him by Zoom and we got the opportunity to tell him that he was very loved and appreciated by us. We will always miss him!
Submitted by his daughters, Pascale, Anne-Marie, Nicole and Pilar.
MARIA BONNEFOY
Maria “Maricoy” Obias-Bonnefoy was two and a half weeks short of her 70th birthday when the tragic collapse occurred. She was not one to expect fanfare over her birthday, but neither was she fazed about aging. She embraced life in every aspect. She was discerning, adventurous, brave, thoughtful, interested, loving and loved by all who knew her.
She worked at the International Monetary Fund in Wash DC as a Senior Budget Officer until 2007, when she and her husband Claudio moved to Surfside. During retirement, she filled her time with travel, photography, music, painting and ceramic art. She loved to organize family reunions, medical missions and built classrooms in her hometown in the Philippines.
She received awards for photography but was humble and self-effacing never promoting her work, yet always willing to share her talents. She excelled in whatever she took an interest in, and was tirelessly involved with her hobbies, yoga, and often engaged with friend, family and siblings.
She did not have children of her own but was considered the best aunt to her nephews and nieces. She also loved Claudio’s children and grandchildren, often visiting or being visited by them at their Surfside home.
Maricoy was larger than life. A natural raconteur, she genuinely enjoyed people and always made people feel special. She had simultaneous projects going on and one often wondered how she could accomplish so much in a day. She left us too soon and our lives have been disrupted by her absence.
Submitted byDulce Obias-Manno.
CASSIE (CASSONDRA) BILLEDEAU STRATTON
Cassie (Cassondra) Billedeau Stratton (3.27.81) is missed everyday by family and friends in Miami, throughout the country, and around the world. She made friends everywhere bringing joy and light to all who knew her.
Growing up in Kenner, LA, she studied acting and modeled until Hurricane Katrina (2006) uprooted her and her family. She relocated to New York City and took the Big Apple by storm working in the promotional business. She continued acting, and modeling for the best-known fashion and shoe lines. Her career led her to a life of “influence” with sites like Chic Living 365.
In 2014, she met her husband, Michael. They married in 2015 on the cliffs of Santa Barbara, CA. Cassie found her dream in 2016 when moving to Surfside and at Champlain Towers South. She said; “I never want to live anywhere else again.” Cass loved to travel and met friends all around the world who admired her. Everyone loved Cassie and she loved everyone. Cassie believed her greatest accomplishment, by far, is her beloved daughter, Ariana Hevia. Cass and Ari were not only mother and daughter, but grew up like sisters in Louisiana and NYC together. No mother loved their child more.
In Surfside, she was Home, happy, and friends with all. In Louisiana, Cassie is survived by her daughter, Ariana Hevia,
He was 28 years old. His life was full of promise and potential, filled with hopes for the future.
Moises was a very kind-hearted person, always showing compassion and warmth to those around him. He was family oriented and enjoyed spending time with his loved ones and friends. His smile could light up any room. He carried himself with the grace and manners of a true gentleman. He believed in God and lived with a clean conscience.
We will forever remember the little things that made Moises unique: the morning CAFEEEEEE, his “soy cansado,” the vallenatos, the underwear in sight, his long hair, the piercing in his eyebrow, the “triki-trakis,” the lizards, the pet snake, ice in his coffee, and in his soup, the pasta, milkshakes, empanadas de pabellón, plátanos con queso, the nights in the balcony, the cigarettes, his motorcycle, his love for his dog Balú, “League of Legends,” moving his leg, tight hugs.
He used to say that even though we were far apart, we were looking at the same moon. Though his time with us was far too short, the impact of his life and the love he shared will be cherished forever.
We miss him .
Submitted by Diana Brief.
Manuel “Manny” V. Lafont, Jr. was born January 27, 1967, in Houston, Texas to Cuban immigrants. Manny was very proud of his Cuban heritage and continued the many customs and traditions throughout his lifetime.
Manny had a vibrant zest for life and was always the life of the party. He loved to make everyone that was part of his life happy, of which he succeeded on so many levels. He loved to dance, pull practical jokes, wore all sorts of costumes for any occasion, and loved all things baseball. Everyone who knew Manny recognized these special traits and embraced them all.
The greatest joy in his life were his children, Mia and Santi. He exuded this role as the best father he could be and it did not go unnoticed. His involvement in every aspect of his children’s lives was where he thrived and where he always wanted to be. In addition, Manny’s family and friends meant to world to him. It’s undeniable that Manny loved so many and that he was loved by so many as well.
He was involved in his church community and always tried to help those in need. No matter what the situation was, he was always willing to help those that were less fortunate.
We will never forget Manny, and his legacy will live on through the many memories that we all share for this remarkable man. He will always be remembered in our hearts!
Duerme con los angelitos Manny!
Submitted by Arlene Lafont Seltzer, on behalf of Lafont family.
MYRIAM NOTKIN & ARNIE NOTKIN MANUEL LAFONT
Myriam Notkin grew up in Havana, Cuba. In 1959, she escaped Cuba to Miami with her parents at age 19 to start a new life. Myriam was married to her first husband, Victor Caspi, for 27 years and together they had three children.
She was the matriarch, the one who remembered every single birthday and anniversary of each of her children and grandchildren. She would send a card with a gift to them every year.
Marina Restrepo Azen lived in apartment 401 for about 20 years, where she had many happy times with her husband Norman Azen (who predeceased her in August 2020), and often with visiting family members. She loved to be surrounded by her husband, her daughter, son in law, grandchildren, siblings, nephews and nieces and so many other people who she would always greet with a broad smile and with open arms.
Marina had an unlimited sense of optimism which was contagious. She was generous, open hearted and kind. She made a delicious pistachio cake, enjoyed playing Parques, and loved to learn about stocks and investing.
As a mother, Marina gave the best gift of all: unconditional love. That boundless love she extended to her grandkids, who she adored, and to all of her family, including her beloved younger sister and best friend. She was an example of how to be a mom by being such a wonderful mother herself.
Marina loved to read. She read “The Wall Street Journal”, Barron’s and other investing journals, as well as novels. She would often relax in her living room and read, pausing only to look out at the ocean. One of her favorite authors was Isabel Allende, and in her book “Eva Luna” she writes:
“There is no death, daughter. People die only when we forget them,’; ‘If you can remember me, I will be with you always.”
We promise to remember you always.
Submitted by daughter, Karla Harwich.
Myriam was very trendy. She loved getting her hair and nails done often. She also dressed well, following the latest trends in clothing and jewelry. Additionally, Myriam was advanced in technology for her age and enjoyed sharing videos and posting pictures to Facebook of family, inspirational quotes, or simply the beauty outside or places she was visiting.
Myriam will always be remembered for her cooking. She was famous for her brisket, flan, and coffee cake — those recipes will live on through her family and friends.
Myriam was a social butterfly who enjoyed keeping busy. She loved having lunch with friends and family, playing rummikub or mahjong, traveling, sharing laughs, watching movies, and spending holidays together with family. She looked forward to her water aerobics classes with her friends and enjoyed morning walks on the boardwalk.
In 1990, Myriam was set up on a date with Arnold Notkin, also known as Arnie, who had three children of his own. Arnie was a gift sent from heaven — a great man with a heart of gold whom she was lucky to be married to for another 27 years.
Arnie was born in Rochester, New Hampshire. He attended Boston University after serving in the U.S. Army from where he received his bachelor’s degree, and later attended the University of Miami in the 1950s, from where he received his master’s degree. He lived in Miami Beach for several decades before moving and retiring to Surfside with Myriam.
Arnie had a passion for sports and helping others. He was a physical education teacher in Miami Beach for over 40 years and taught many generations of children. He couldn’t be out in public in the community without being recognized by a former student. Arnie was also a youth football coach and president of the Police Athletic League. He also served as a parks director for the City of Miami Beach.
Arnie was great with children, helping them find their strengths and helping them excel in and out of school. He truly treasured bumping into former students or their parents and schmoozing with them. Arnie will always be remembered for his ability to help troubled students find their path.
Arnie enjoyed word search puzzles and watching sports on television, especially baseball — his favorite team being the Atlanta Braves.
Myriam and Arnie Notkin were inseparable for their entire marriage. Their inseparable nature can be credited to their involvement in the Miami Beach community, and their dedication to their friends, families, and themselves. Together, they enjoyed going to the movies, eating at restaurants, and traveling. They also loved spending time with their families which they both were very much devoted to. Myriam and Arnie volunteered in their community, whether it was at Temple Menorah, the Miami Beach Community Health Center, the Miami Beach Police Athletic League, or Hadassah.
As individuals and as life partners, Myriam and Arnie Notkin left their imprint wherever they stepped foot and engraved a place in the hearts of all of those who were graced by their presence. They are forever missed.
Submitted by Myriam’s daughters, Jackie Samuelson, Dianne Ohayon and Belinda Wiseman.
MARINA RESTREPO AZEN
LORENZO DE OLIVEIRA LEONE
Way before Lorenzo was born, he was much planned and desired by his parents.
Lollo, the best mix of Raquel Oliveira and Alfredo Leone, the curious curly haired boy with big green eyes and a loud laugh, was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and moved to Florida before his first birthday, as his parents looked for a safer and warm city to raise him. He spoke Portuguese, Spanish and English as first languages, and he understood Italian as his father and grandparents were Italian.
Lollo loved playing at the pool with his dad, cooking and singing with his mom, going to the beach with his friends, playing soccer at school and playing in the afternoon with his nanny’s kids. Lorenzo was crazy about music. He listened to Michael Jackson and Bruce Springsteen everyday going to school, and loved Jorge Ben and Tina Turner. He asked for a drum set for Christmas and was learning to play the piano.
A month before the collapse, he invited his whole class for a birthday party at Champlain. Almost 100 people showed up as this was the first party since pandemic hit. They had an epic time!
Lorenzo was an empathetic, happy, fun boy, loved his family and his home more than anything. He would come to his parents bed for sunrise everyday, sneak in the middle and ask for a “sandwich kiss”, saying he was the meat and the parents were the bread.
On June 24th 2021, Lorenzo was home with his father. His mom, family and friends miss him immensely, and life is not the same without his little hands touching our faces and his voice singing in the car.
When Lorenzo was born, his parents were listening to “Fly Me to the Moon.” Now his mom imagines him and dad together in a beautiful trip playing among the stars.
Submitted by mother, Raquel Oliveira.
ALFREDO LEONE
Alfredo was the most Brazilian of all Italians in the world. He came from Rome to the US when he was 17-years-old, and nurtured a love for Brazil since his first visit in 1994. Alfredo graduated at Boston University and did business all over the globe. In one of his business trips in Brazil he met his soulmate, and immediately decided to move to Rio. Living amazing four years in that tropical city, he had the chance to be immersed in its nature, culture, music, and the adventure of being a father. Since Lorenzo was born, Alfredo totally devoted his life to his family, prioritizing them above anything.
Alfredo was the heart of every party, meeting or brief encounter. He was passionate, enthusiastic, happy, and always had advice to share. With Alfredo the talks were endless, and good wines were always on the table.
His love for his wife and his son were his trademark since he returned to Miami in 2017. He also loved his colleagues, coaching his team, meeting in person.
Alfredo died with his son Lorenzo while his wife traveled that day. He is missed in every sunset, happy hour, every trip, every glass of wine, every fun moment. He was the synonym of life, of joy.
His wife, parents, extended family and friends remember him with great stories to be kept in our hearts. Alfredo will always be with us in those moments we see something beautiful and want to share with the person we love.
This person is Alfredo.
In 2023, Alfredo would be 50-years-old. He planned to have friends from all over the world in Rio for his birthday party. Unfortunately, he passed when he was he was 48, but his wife and friends made this celebration come true, and 250 people got together in beautiful Copacabana Beach to make sure his 50th birthday was the way he wanted. Alfredo was celebrated the way he deserved: With great music, good wine, happy friends together and a beautiful sunset. Alfredo, we miss you every day.
Submitted by wife, Raquel Oliveira.
GABRIELA CAMOU & MIGUEL KAUFMANN
In Loving Memory of My Parents Gabriela Camou and Miguel Kaufmann:
After three years of the surfside collapse, the denial phase is gone. The enduring heart heavy grief has reduced and I am now able to write and speak about this tragedy. This unimaginable event has left an irreplaceable void in our lives, one that words seem insufficient to fill. Yet, it is through words that I hope to honor their memory and celebrate the remarkable lives they led. My parents, Gabriela and Miguel, were the foundation of our family. A constant source of love, strength, and guidance. They taught us the values of kindness, resilience, and integrity, not just through their words but through the exemplary way they lived their lives. The suddenness of their departure has been a profound shock and a painful reminder of the fragility of life. Yet, in this sorrow, I find solace in the countless beautiful memories they left behind. From the simple, everyday moments to the grand celebrations, their presence was a gift we cherished. To my dear parents, thank you for everything. Your love has shaped who I am, and your memory will continue to guide me. Though you are just physically gone, because you are forever living in me.
Submitted by daughter, Sofia Kaufmann.
NICKY LANGESFELD
Nicky was the most beautiful gift that life gave us.
Her smile would light up every room. Nicky’s heart and love for others and animals was unforgettable. She was the most beautiful gift that life gave us for a short time, but she will forever live in our hearts.
We admire how she lived her life with so much love and dedication to everything she did. We will love you and miss you forever. The perfect daughter, sister, wife, and friend. Forever Nicky #4nicky
Submitted by the Langesfeld family.
MIHAI & MARIA RADULESCU
Maria Popa Radulescu, 79, and her husband, Mihai, 82, lived in unit 404 of Champlain Towers South in Surfside and perished in the collapse in the early hours of June 24, 2021. Their bodies were recovered on July 9. The Radulescus are survived by their son, Alexandru, who lives in New York, according to a family friend. Music was part of their lives. Emilie Triot, a manager at the Publix pharmacy in Surfside where the couple regularly went, said she bonded with Mihai over songs of different genres. He would record several mixes of songs which he shared with friends. “I think I have a mix tape (well, mix CDs) for every year Mihai lived,” she wrote on the condolences wall with tributes to the couple on Caballero Rivero’s website. (They were buried at Caballero Rivero Southern Memorial Park in North Miami.) The pharmacist said the couple was always a treat to her day. “When I was at my lowest of lows and most exhausting of days, it was like they had the foresight to show up — and when they did, they picked me up.” The Radulescus were extremely engaged in all Town activities. They attended all Town Commission meetings and took pictures with an old-style camera and later shared the pictures with elected officials. They also showed their support and appreciation to the Police Department by treating them with food from Flanigans almost every month.
Submitted by Gabrielle Emerson.
9293 Harding Avenue
Surfside, Florida 33154
