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Elderly Cuban Passes Away After Fulfilling Dream of Returning to the Island from Tampa Streets

Wednesday, January 29, 2025 by Michael Hernandez

An elderly Cuban man suffered a heart attack and passed away in his homeland shortly after realizing his greatest dream: returning to Cuba after spending years living in homelessness on the streets of Tampa, Florida. The man, known as Melquíades Limonta, hailed from Guantánamo and was sent to the United States in 1961. Unfortunately, life dealt him a tough hand, and he found himself without a home, living on the streets of Tampa in recent years.

Despite his hardships, Limonta held onto hope that he would one day return to his homeland and reunite with his three children: Giosvel, Carlos, and Marita. According to statements made by Cuban national Roger Ramírez, who assists fellow Cubans living on the streets of Tampa, Limonta's desire to return was driven by his wish to see his children and reconnect with his sister, Magaly.

Ramírez confirmed Limonta's passing, noting that although he was in poor health, Limonta had been assisting in humanitarian efforts, such as distributing food, while waiting for the bureaucratic processes for his return to Cuba to be completed. "My condolences to Melquíades Limonta's family in Cuba. He earned the affection of many of us who knew him," Ramírez wrote. In a heartfelt video, the influencer shared touching words about the elderly man, who fulfilled his wish to return to the "only place where he could die in peace."

Insights into Melquíades Limonta's Life and Return

Who was Melquíades Limonta?

Melquíades Limonta was a Cuban man originally from Guantánamo, who migrated to the United States in 1961 and ended up living on the streets of Tampa, Florida.

What motivated Limonta to return to Cuba?

Limonta was driven by the desire to reunite with his children and his sister, Magaly, in his homeland.

How did Roger Ramírez assist Limonta?

Roger Ramírez helped Limonta by taking him off the streets and engaging him in humanitarian work while supporting his efforts to return to Cuba.

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