Jorge Mario Suarez

Jorge Mario Suarez, "Mario", 91, of Charlottesville, VA died on November 30, 2023 at Our Lady of Peace in the arms of his loving daughters.

Born on October 6, 1931 in Quito, Ecuador he was one of four sons to Maria Moreno and Julio Suarez. He is predeceased by his wife of 51 years, Rita Suarez.

Mario lived the true American dream. In his early 20s, he left Ecuador and immigrated to New York City. Without much formal education, Mario first worked a number of jobs in restaurants, offices and factories. Mario quickly learned English and his tremendous work ethic helped him go to college at night, eventually earning his degree. Mario opened his own accounting practice in Queens, NY which he held for over 30 years.

In the late 1950’s, Mario took a 3 week vacation to Cuba where he met the love of his life, Rita Afonso. Their courtship was quick and upon his return to New York, they corresponded for months via letters. Mario asked Rita to marry him and she agreed to move to New York and start a new life, first in the Bronx, and ultimately in Elmont, Long Island where they lived for many years and raised a family. For a number of years Mario and Rita assisted other family members immigrate to the United States and become American citizens.

Known affectionally as Papi to his friends and family, he is survived by his daughter Rita Salsini of Charlottesville, VA (Jim) and Rebecca Scaramucci of Manhasset, NY. He was an adoring grandfather to Natalie, Stephanie and Jenny Salsini, and to Victoria, Gabriella and David Scaramucci. Mario valued education and never missed an opportunity to tell everyone he met how proud he was that his daughters and grandchildren all completed college. He enjoyed the last years of his life in Charlottesville, first living with, and then close by, his daughter Rita. He loved Sunday dinners at Rita’s house and enjoyed local Charlottesville restaurants, concerts, wineries and University of Virginia events. These memories will always be cherished by the people who loved him.

Special thanks to Our Lady of Peace Nursing Center and Heartland Hospice for the love and care they provided Mario during his last few years.

There will be a memorial service in New York for Mario’s family at a later date.