Obituary of Ismael Cano

Ismael Cano March 29, 1928 – March 18, 2025

With profound love and cherished memories, we announce the passing of Ismael Cano, who left this world peacefully just shy of his 97th birthday. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and uncle to many, Ismael's legacy is one of unwavering love and an enduring joy for life. Affectionately known as Papi, Papa, Melito, or Mijo, he was loved by all who knew him.

Born in Cuba, Ismael was the youngest of thirteen siblings, all of whom he now joins in rest: Mercedes, Aurora, Blanca, Manuel, America, Vidalina, Pedro, Lidia, Esmeralda, Guicho, Caridad, and Delma. A star baseball player in his youth, he carried his love for the sport with him when he bravely immigrated to the United States with his family after being sponsored by one of his sisters. In 1984, he proudly became a U.S. citizen, embracing the opportunities and challenges of his new home with resilience and determination.

Ismael worked tirelessly to provide for his family—first as a land surveyor in Cuba, a profession he left behind to give his family a better life in America. He worked in a knitting mill factory and later became a small business owner of a fish market in the South Bronx, as well as a dry cleaner and a pizzeria in Washington Heights, NYC. But his true happiness came from the simple joys of life—cherishing time with his beloved wife of 64 years, Caridad; his daughters, Luisa Cano (Weiss) and Marisela Esposito, his grandsons, Steven and Bradley Gomez and Dante Esposito; and his great-grandchildren, Donovan, Wyatt, and Wylie Gomez, and Melanie Rose Gomez. He was also deeply loved by his son-in-law, Seve.

A lover of baseball and boxing, Ismael could often be found watching a game, telling stories, reciting poems, cracking jokes (if he didn't find one funny, he would tickle himself), listening to music, dancing, or laughing with his nephews-best friends—via daily phone calls. In his later years, he spent endless hours playing dominoes with Caridad and soaking in the world around him. He was the ultimate gentleman—his sense of humor never dulled, and his laugh was always contagious.

The world was brighter with Ismael in it, and though he is gone, the love he shared and the warmth of his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor his memory by recalling moments spent with him, watching a ballgame, playing a game of dominoes, and, most especially, sharing a laugh and dancing - his recipe for longevity —in his spirit.

Rest easy, Papa—you will be dearly missed.

To leave an online condolence for Ismael, please visit www.LeskoFuneralHome.com