Osvaldo Alvarado US Army CWO4, 91 years of age
September 15, 1928 – September 19, 2019
Osvaldo "Ozzie" Alvarado Chief Warrant Officer 4, was born on September 15, 1928 in Orocovis, Puerto Rico. He was the youngest of nine children.
Ozzie was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for his service to the 65th Infantry Regiment during the Korean War known as the "Borinqueneers." Congressional Representative John Mica, presented the Gold Medal to Ozzie in a ceremony on August 4, 2016. Ozzie courageously served two tours of duty in Korea. The Borinqueneers are made up of brave soldiers from Puerto Rico who fought in World War I, World War II and the Korean War. The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest civilian award and is for achievements that have a major impact on American history. A Foreign Weapons Specialist, Ozzie served multiple tours during the Vietnam War as well. During his service, he was stationed all over the world including Germany, South America, Aberdeen, Maryland, Iran and Yuma, Arizona.
After 30 years of service Ozzie retired to Winter Park, Florida with his beloved wife, Marlene and his children. Ever the Renaissance man, Ozzie began an abundant second career which was rooted in volunteering in his community to spread love and light to those who knew him. Ozzie was a prolific grower of roses. Known for his over 200 rose bush garden to which he tended to meticulously, he would share bouquets with everyone he met. He was one of the founding members of the Rose Society of Central Florida. Ozzie became a master of calligraphy, labeling each rose bush with a handmade sign. Ozzie also learned to bake bread. He never baked for himself, he baked for his family, his friends, and his community. He was known for his amazing raisin bread and onion cheese bread.
Ozzie was a proud member of the Rotary Club of Orange County East for well over 20 years. During this time, Ozzie extended his gift-giving to the migrant workers in Central Florida. He collected clothes, furniture, food, items for children and babies so that these families were never without the fundamental necessities of life.
Everyone certainly has a story about Ozzie and how he impacted their lives. Ozzie did a lot in his 91 years, but he would be the first person to tell you that his family was his greatest accomplishment. He is survived by his loving wife, Marlene whom he was married to for 47 years. His daughter Amy Marie, her husband Ryan and their children, Isabella, Ava and Caden; his Daughter Kim, her husband Mark and their children, Teal, Mark and Wyatt and his daughter Christina, her husband Cliff and their children Alex and Michael. Ozzie was met in heaven by his son George and grandson Christopher.
Thank you for your gifts of Time, Talent and Treasure Ozzie. You legacy will live on in everyone who was blessed to know you.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations are made in Ozzie's name to the Wounded Warrior Project. https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/