Felipe Avila

Felipe Avila, 88, of Bartow, FL, passed away due to organ failure on Sunday, February 8, 2015, at his residence surrounded by family and close friends. Mr. Avila was born August 23, 1926, in San Cristobal Catorce, S.L.P., Mexico. He migrated to Texas as a young man before relocating to Bartow in the 1960s with his wife and children. Mr. Avila was a citrus contractor before his retirement. He was always a dedicated, hardworking individual and a man of faith. He enjoyed the outdoors, sports and games such as dominos and playing cards; often times letting his grandchildren win a few hands. Felipe was preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Felicitas (Lara) Avila. He is survived by six children: Juan Avila and wife Bernadette of Bartow, Saul Avila and wife Janet of Fort Meade, Marco Avila and wife Cheri of Bartow, Ruth Martinez and husband Santana of Fort Meade, Flor Reyes and husband Ovin of Bartow, and Perla Avila of Brandon; twelve grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. A loving husband, father and a very indulgent grandfather, he will be dearly missed. The family will receive friends on Friday, February 13, 2015, from 6:00-6:30 p.m. at Whidden-McLean Funeral Home in Bartow with a memorial service to follow at 6:30 p.m. For those who wish, contributions may be made in memory of Felipe Avila to the Compassionate Care Hospice Foundation at www.cchfoundation.net. Condolences may be made to the family at www.whiddenmcleanfuneralhome.com