Jose "Joe" R. Hilerio, 77 of Apopka, Florida passed away October 22, 2018. Mr. Hilerio was born August 28, 1941 in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico to Jose Ramon Hilerio Sr. and Adela Gonzalez.
Born in Puerto Rico and moved to New York City (Bronx) Drove an ambulance while in the Big Apple.
Moved to Orlando Florida with his family, where he was a machinist and fabricator at an industrial heavy equipment company.
His love for Maggie was immense and always put her first. 56 year of marriage was a forefront of their love for each other and his commitment to her was evident everyday.
Who else could handle hours watching marathons of "Yes to the dress" and "Casa Cerrado" but a man who wanted his wife to be happy.;)
He loved electronics, computers and video games, he was nicknamed inspector gadget as he would research, purchase and disassemble any new electronic gadget available. He was self taught and learned about electronics when he became sick and had to retire. This was a great thing that restored his sense of purpose and mental stimulation.
As he learned more he began repairing anyone's computer in the neighborhood, as well as built computers from used parts to give to more elderly people that were less fortunate. He never once asked for money, and in many instances paid out of his pocket to make sure he was able to give them a new computer or repair the one they gave him. This was his nature he was always ready to help some one, however would never ask anyone for a favor as he did not want to impose on anyone or be a burden to them. His selfless character, I admire and hope one day I can even be half of what he was.
He loved Photography, Videography and design arts as he would spend hours taking pictures and video whether it be of wild life or taking pictures of friends and their children, once again never asking for anything in return and paying out of pocket to present them with a framed picture of DVD or their loved ones many times paying out of his pocket to provide them with that special moment. I believe he enjoyed the feeling from watching the reaction of those he gave momentos to. Sometimes being humorous and using photoshop to recreate of change their appearance and background for chuckles.
He had a great sense of humor all the way to the end while visiting him late at night in the ICU he made a comment to me saying call my brother Saul, there is trouble in Apopka they are trying to dress me in women's clothing, referencing the standard hospital gown, the nurses would visit just to talk to him as his personality was infectious.
He even ate my wifes cooking with a smile and we all know she is not a culinary specialist.
He liked hanging at the bars having a beer with his friends discussing the days events, as a matter of fact he introduced his brother Saul to the love of his life and soon to be wife by calling him and say Hey Saul, you need to come up here and meet this bartender "She is hot!" The rest was history and they were married for many long years, before her passing.
He was survived by:
Maggie Hilerio (Wife)
Joey Hilerio (Son)
Eric Hilerio (Son)
Tony Hilerio (Son)
Saul Hilerio (Brother)
Miriam Hilerio Montanez (Sister)
Lisa Hilerio Zambri (Sister)
Katheryn Hilerio (Granddaughter)
Trenton Hilerio (Grandson)
Service is scheduled for Sunday, November 4th at 12:00 pm at DeGusipe Funeral Home 9001 N. Orlando Ave. Maitland, FL 32751.
After which there will be a private family reception.
Arrangements are entrusted to DeGusipe Funeral Home and Crematory, 9001 N Orlando Ave, Maitland, FLorida 32751, 407-695-CARE(2273)