Rufino Crispin-Modesto

Rufino Crispin-Modesto, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully in Tampa, Florida, on November 18, 2023, at the age of 81. Born on April 1, 1942, in Guerrero, Mexico, Rufino was a man of many talents and interests, known for his intelligence, industriousness, and his unique ability to turn the ordinary into something extraordinary.

Rufino is survived by his loving wife, Catalina Blas-Verduzco, and their extensive family, which includes their children Rufino (Lourdes), Rosalia (Nicolas), Marlen (Juan), Catalina (Irineo), Calixto (Ana), Rufino Jr., Azucena (Higinio), Miguel (Ines), Oliver (Bertoldo), Ester (Fermin), Rodolfo (Eladia), Freddy, Sofia (Ogilbert), Karina (Jose), and Ricardo (Maria). He also leaves behind his sisters Maria and Magdalena, and a legacy of fifty-three grandchildren. Rufino is preceded in death by his brothers Crisofro, Rafael, and Miguel, and his sisters Carmela, Bartola, Isabel, and Petra.

Rufino spent many years working as a landscaper in the gardening industry. His work ethic was unparalleled, and his handiwork was admired by all who had the privilege of seeing it. Rufino was not only skilled with plants and flowers but also with wood. He was an excellent carpenter, a trade he honed over many years and passed down to his children and grandchildren.

Beyond his work, Rufino was a man of many interests. He loved to sing, and his voice would often be heard echoing through the house or garden, filling the air with beautiful melodies. His love for music was infectious, and he instilled this passion in his family. Rufino was also known for his intelligence, often found deep in conversation about various topics, from politics to history to science. He also loved to make jokes and make people laugh. He never stopped learning and growing, a trait that made him an interesting and engaging companion.

Rufino was a man of remarkable resilience, strength, and determination. He was also a man of great kindness and generosity, always ready to lend a helping hand. His life was a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and love for family. Rufino's life can be best summed up by the quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson, "The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well."

Rufino Crispin-Modesto was a loving husband, a devoted father, a cherished grandfather, a caring brother, and a loyal friend. He was a man who loved life and lived it fully. He touched many lives with his intelligence, his hard work, and his love for his family. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He will be greatly missed, yet his legacy will live on through his family and the many lives he touched.

Family will receive friends and family for Visitation at 9:00 AM on December 1, 2023 at St. Clement Catholic Church, 1104 N Alexander St., Plant City, FL 33563. A Funeral Mass to follow at 10:00 AM.