Rafael Fermin Fortiz Rivera

On the night of November 12, 2025, under rare green auroras above DC, our beloved Rafael Fermin Fortiz Rivera passed away peacefully and returned to the Lord.

Rafael was a devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather, caring brother, supportive uncle, and loyal friend. In each role, he offered warmth and encouragement. We invite you to honor his life by sharing stories and memories here.

Words to Remember from Rafael

Before he passed, Rafael said,

“Cuando yo falte, no quiero que me falten.” When I am gone, I don’t want you to grieve.

Instead, he asked us to be proud. He wanted us to honor his life, his sacrifices, and the love he gave, especially in his last days.

While he recognized grief is natural, just as he mourned his own loved ones, he comforted us, reminding us that loss is part of life and that life is not all death.

Above all, Rafael wanted to be remembered for who he was: his kindness, gentle words, ready smile, and ability to bring family together in joy and sorrow.

Reflecting, he would tell his younger self, “Si pudiera, no haría todas las pendejadas que yo hice” — If I could, I wouldn’t have made all the foolish mistakes I made.

Calling them “pendejadas” was Rafael’s lighthearted way of acknowledging our youthful errors. He learned, forgave, moved forward, and embraced happiness, always carrying loved ones in his heart.

Most importantly, he wanted his family to stay close, united, open, caring, and cherishing memories, because family was his world.

His Obituary

Rafael was born on July 7, 1954, in Cuscatlán, El Salvador, to Carlos Fortis Reyes and Berta Rivera. One of eight brothers, he overcame a challenging childhood filled with family bonds, affection, close friendships, discovery, and adventure. He often recalled working with his brothers, learning from his dad, enjoying his mom’s home-cooked meals, and eating fresh food, especially biting into fresh sugar canes.

As a teenager, El Salvador entered a 12-year civil war (a war that would eventually claim 75,000 lives). At eighteen, with his family’s support, he left for the United States, hoping for a better future.

In DC, Rafael adapted quickly. He learned English fast, worked as a busser, then as a runner and server, and later mastered construction. He trained as a mechanic and, with his brothers’ support, opened “El Taller”, which he managed for years, a testament to his perseverance and work ethic.

Over the years, Rafael loved bringing people together. He enjoyed hosting gatherings with music and dancing, especially cumbia, salsa, and bachata. Laughter and joy filled his home. He was known for his wit, stories, and ability to connect with others.

He often said, “Caras sabemos, corazones no sabemos” — Faces we know, hearts we don’t know.

He believed in showing kindness and respect to everyone.

Later, Rafael met and married Irma Dolores Molina De Fortiz and started a family of his own. He worked with his brother at Gallaudet University until retirement. He taught his children diligence, honesty, and loyalty. In his later years, he enjoyed fixing things, sharing meals, and watching classic movies. He led by example, saying, “Live and let others live.”

Watching his children overcome challenges inspired him, and he encouraged them: “No se ahueve” — don’t get discouraged. Their achievements made him proud.

As his children started their own families, Rafael’s happiness grew. He loved being a grandfather, telling stories, and sharing adventures. He enjoyed playing tennis, walking his dogs, biking with his grandchildren, and teaching them to ride. These moments were full of laughter and joy, and he loved to show affection and share wisdom. He was proud to see them succeed and thrilled to meet his great-grandchildren.

In his later years, even as illness slowed him, Rafael enjoyed simple pleasures, browsing stores, driving familiar streets, and spending time with neighbors. He cherished peaceful moments at home with his wife, finding comfort in life’s quiet joys.

Rafael faced his final days with dignity and faith. Even as he battled liver cancer, he remained strong, surrounded by family. Just before passing, he said peacefully,

“I’ll finally know what happens next,” trusting God as always.

His words weren’t doubt, but an invitation for us to embrace the afterlife with wonder and hope.

He returns to the Lord in faith and will always be cherished in his family’s hearts with pride and love.