Marco Rubio’s father dies at 83
by George Bennett | September 5th, 2010
Marco Rubio with his father in April signing candidate papers. Getty Images photo.
Mario Rubio’s deteriorating health had led Marco Rubio on Friday to cancel a debate scheduled for this morning with Democrat Kendrick Meek on NBC’s Meet The Press. Rubio’s campaign said Marco Rubio, his mother, three siblings and extended family were with Mario Rubio when he died.
Rubio’s Senate campaign will be “on temporary hold,” according to an announcement late Saturday.
Marco Rubio, who in his speeches often speaks of his father’s hard-working example, issued this statement:
“My father knew hard work and struggle from very early in his life. His mother died when he was only 9 years old. The day after his mother was buried he went to work with his father and did not stop working until he was 78 years old.
“He was by far the most unselfish person I have ever known, always focused on others, and never on his own well being. He was especially determined to provide his children opportunities he himself never had.
“My dad worked as a street vendor, security guard, apartment building manager and crossing guard. But for most of his life he was a bartender, and by all accounts a great one. But his greatest success came from the two most important jobs he ever had: husband and father.
“He was very proud of my public service. And over the last 18 months he became an expert channel surfer, constantly searching for my next television interview.
“I was blessed to be raised by a world class father. And I thank God for allowing my father to live long and healthy enough to see that the sacrifices he made for us were not in vain.”
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September 5th, 2010 at 8:38 am
My thoughts and prayer go out to the Rubio family.
September 5th, 2010 at 9:02 am
Dear Rubio family:
My heart filled prayers go out to you all as you grieve for the loss of your loved one. God will watch over you all.
September 5th, 2010 at 9:20 am
My family and I want to extend our deepest condolences to Marco and the entire Rubio family on the passing of his father, Mario. Our thoughts are with you.
September 5th, 2010 at 9:52 am
Our prayersare with you Marco. Just know that your father was extremely proud of you. He excelled at the one thing most parents try to do their best at – raising their children the right way. God bless you and your family and hopefully the leftist media will leave you alone during this time of sadness.
September 5th, 2010 at 10:46 am
god bless the Rubio family…
September 5th, 2010 at 2:08 pm
God bless the Rubio family.
It is always encouraging to see immigrant sucess stories.
Sounds like Mario Rubio (God Bless him)was a working class hero. Easy to see how his son gets the strength. RIP Mario Rubio
September 7th, 2010 at 8:15 pm
As a Cuban American, I have been very proud of you and your father that raised you to be not only a politician, but a good family husband and father. Just like your father did,
My blessing for the Rubio Family,
sincerely, Kikki Santana.
P.S Un abrazo Cubano